Dreshawn Thomas Obituary: Birmingham Shooting Near Legion Field Leaves One Dead and Eight Injured

Dreshawn Thomas, reportedly also known as Dre’Shawn Cottrell, is identified in online reports as the person killed in the October 31 Birmingham shooting near Legion Field. Police confirmed nine people were shot.

Dreshawn Thomas Identified in Reports Following Birmingham Shooting

A fatal shooting near Legion Field in Birmingham, Alabama, has left a community grieving after violence erupted following the 85th annual Magic City Classic on Saturday, October 31, 2026.

The victim has been identified as Dreshawn Thomas, also referred to as Dre’Shawn Cottrell, in the supplied report. However, the Birmingham Police Department’s publicly reported updates have not independently confirmed the victim’s identity. The name should therefore be attributed to the report rather than presented as an official police identification.

Police confirmed that one person died after nine people were shot in the incident. Eight others were injured.

What Happened Near Legion Field?

According to Birmingham Police, officers were dispatched shortly after 7:50 p.m. to the 400 block of Graymont Avenue West, near Legion Field. The shooting happened after the annual football rivalry between Alabama A&M University and Alabama State University, which attracts large crowds of students, alumni and supporters.

Police confirmed that nine people were struck by gunfire. One victim died, another was in critical condition, and seven others were reported in stable condition in the early updates on Sunday.

The incident led authorities to suspend the remaining Magic City Classic tailgating activities and ask people to leave the stadium area.

Birmingham Police Investigation and Suspect Information

Investigators recovered multiple firearms at the scene. Police also confirmed that one person was detained and taken to Birmingham Police headquarters for questioning.

At the time of the reports reviewed, authorities had not publicly identified that individual as a suspect or announced charges. The circumstances that led to the gunfire and any possible motive remained under investigation.

Birmingham Police Chief Michael Pickett described the violence as senseless, while Mayor Randall Woodfin expressed sympathy for those affected and said the city would continue pursuing justice.

Anyone with information or video footage from the incident is encouraged to contact Birmingham Police detectives at 205-254-1764 or Crime Stoppers at 205-254-7777.

Remembering Dreshawn Thomas

For the family and friends of the person killed, the tragedy represents a devastating loss. The supplied article identifies the victim as Dreshawn Thomas, also known as Dre’Shawn Cottrell, but that identification has not been independently confirmed through the police updates or established news reports reviewed.

Until an official identification or reliable family announcement becomes available, personal details and biographical claims should be treated cautiously.

A Community Left Grieving

The shooting has cast a shadow over an event traditionally associated with HBCU pride, fellowship and celebration. The eight surviving victims and their loved ones also face a difficult period following the violence.

As Birmingham Police continue investigating, the community awaits further information and hopes those injured make a full recovery.

Our thoughts are with everyone affected by this tragedy.