From Tribune staff reports
VESTAVIA HILLS — Multiple people have been confirmed shot at a Vestavia Hills church on Thursday night, according to the Vestavia Hills Police Department. Police said they have a suspect in custody.
At approximately 6:22 p.m., the Vestavia Hills Police Department responded to an active shooter call at Saint Stephen’s Episcopal Church located at 3775 Crosshaven Drive Vestavia Hills, according to a statement from VHPD.
Vestavia Hills Captain Shane Ware said that three people were injured and two people are dead.
The one injured victim was taken to a local hospital for treatment.
“From what we’ve gathered from the circumstances of this evening, a lone suspect entered a small group church meeting and began shooting,” Ware said.
Multiple law enforcement agencies and fire departments responded to the scene.
“I would like to take this opportunity to thank the numerous law enforcement and firefighting agencies, both local and federal, that have responded to assist us in our response to this call and to this investigation,” Ware said during a press conference. “That would include the Mountain Brook Police Department, the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Department, the Shelby County Sheriff’s Department, the Hoover Police Department, the Pelham Police Department, the FBI, the ATF, the US Marshal Service, the Rocky Ridge Fire Department, the Mountain Brook Fire Department, and the Hoover Fire Department.”
The suspect has been taken into custody. Ware said there is no threat to the community.
“The Vestavia Hills police department would like to express our prayers for the families of the victims of this tragic event and for everyone in our community and greater community that is affected by this tragedy,” Ware said.
Another press conference will be held after 9:30 a.m.
Authorities ask anyone with information in connection to the incident to contact the Vestavia Hills Police Department at 205-978-0140.
This story will be updated as more information becomes available.