Birmingham, AL – The new year has brought tragedy to Birmingham as the city grapples with its first homicide of 2025. Derek Marcus Burpo, a 51-year-old pizza delivery driver, was fatally shot during what appears to have been a robbery late Wednesday evening, leaving a community shaken and a family grieving the loss of a loved one.
The incident unfolded at approximately 9:45 p.m. on January 1, 2025, in the 400 block of Roebuck Drive in East Birmingham. Burpo, who was delivering pizzas at the time, was discovered lying on the ground near his vehicle. The pizzas he had been delivering remained untouched inside the car. Tragically, Burpo was pronounced dead at the scene.
A Devastating Loss
Officer Truman Fitzgerald, speaking on behalf of the Birmingham Police Department, expressed the profound sorrow felt by both law enforcement and the community.
“It’s horrible that Mr. Burpo was killed so violently while out trying to make an honest living,” Fitzgerald stated during a press briefing. “This is one of the most heartbreaking homicides we have witnessed. They robbed a family of their loved one.”
Burpo was a long-time resident of Birmingham and a devoted father and husband. He had worked as a delivery driver for several years, known for his friendly demeanor and dedication to his job. Friends and coworkers described him as a kind-hearted individual who went above and beyond to ensure customers were satisfied.
“He was one of the most dependable and hardworking people I’ve ever met,” said one of Burpo’s coworkers, who chose to remain anonymous. “He didn’t deserve this. No one does.”
The Investigation
The Birmingham Police Department has launched an extensive investigation into the incident, though details remain scarce. According to initial reports, residents in the area heard multiple gunshots before finding Burpo unresponsive on the ground.
Investigators are working to determine whether the robbery was premeditated or a crime of opportunity. Authorities have conducted interviews with residents of the nearby home, where Burpo was delivering the pizzas, as well as with neighbors who might have witnessed suspicious activity in the area.
Despite their efforts, no suspects have been identified as of yet. Surveillance footage from nearby homes and businesses is being reviewed in hopes of uncovering leads.
“This is a heinous crime, and we will do everything in our power to bring the perpetrator or perpetrators to justice,” Officer Fitzgerald said.
The police department is urging anyone with information to come forward. Individuals can contact Birmingham homicide detectives at 205-254-1764 or provide anonymous tips through Crime Stoppers at 205-254-7777.
A Grim Start to the Year
Burpo’s murder marks Birmingham’s first homicide of 2025, but it comes on the heels of a year marred by violence. The city closed out 2024 with 151 homicides, the highest annual total since 1933. The surge in violent crime has prompted calls for action from city leaders, community organizations, and residents alike.
In addition to Burpo’s death, Jefferson County has already reported two other fatal shootings in the first days of the new year. A man was killed in Graysville during a domestic dispute, and another individual was shot and killed in Bessemer during an altercation outside a gas station.
The wave of violence has left many residents fearful and demanding change.
“It feels like it’s getting worse and worse,” said one resident of East Birmingham. “People are afraid to even go out at night. Something has to be done.”
Community Mourning and Calls for Justice
The tragedy has sparked an outpouring of grief and support from the community. A makeshift memorial has been set up near the site of the shooting, with neighbors and coworkers leaving flowers, candles, and handwritten notes honoring Burpo’s memory.
One note read, “You were just doing your job. You didn’t deserve this. Rest in peace.”
Local clergy members and community leaders have called for unity and renewed efforts to address the root causes of violence in the city. A candlelight vigil is being organized in Burpo’s honor, bringing together residents to pray for his family and to advocate for a safer Birmingham.
“We cannot let violence define our city,” said Reverend Timothy Carter, a pastor at a nearby church. “Derek’s life mattered. His death is a stark reminder that we must come together to find solutions to this epidemic of violence.”
Rising Concerns for Delivery Drivers
Burpo’s murder highlights the dangers faced by delivery drivers, who often work late hours and are vulnerable to robberies and attacks. Nationally, delivery drivers have increasingly become targets for criminals, prompting calls for better protections and safety measures.
Labor advocates have urged companies to prioritize the safety of their employees by implementing measures such as GPS tracking, cashless payment systems, and enhanced training for drivers on how to handle potentially dangerous situations.
“Delivery drivers are an essential part of our workforce, yet they are often put in harm’s way,” said a spokesperson for a national labor organization. “Employers must do more to ensure their safety.”
Moving Forward
As the investigation into Derek Burpo’s murder continues, his family and friends are left grappling with an unimaginable loss. His wife, children, and extended family have asked for privacy as they mourn and await answers about what led to this senseless act of violence.
The Birmingham Police Department has vowed to leave no stone unturned in their quest for justice. Meanwhile, city leaders are urging residents to remain vigilant and to work together to combat the rising tide of violence.
Burpo’s death serves as a tragic reminder of the human cost of violent crime. His life, cut short while he was simply trying to earn a living, is a loss felt deeply by all who knew him.
As Birmingham begins 2025 with a renewed focus on addressing crime and violence, the memory of Derek Marcus Burpo will stand as a solemn call to action for a safer, more compassionate community.
