A man from Birmingham who was tragically shot and killed on Friday evening is being remembered by his family and loved ones as a devoted father and hardworking individual. RahKeem Darnell Vanderbilt, aged 32, was one of two men who lost their lives in separate shooting incidents.
Vanderbilt and two other men had been spending time together on Fourth Avenue S.W., just off Goldwire Street, when they were suddenly fired upon just before 7 p.m. Police officers from the South Precinct were called to the scene after reports of gunshots.
Upon arrival, they found several shell casings and blood, but the three victims had already been taken to UAB Hospital by private vehicle. Sadly, Vanderbilt was pronounced dead at the hospital, while a second victim suffered critical injuries, and a third victim is expected to survive.
The identities of the other two men have not been disclosed. Officer Truman Fitzgerald has stated that it is unclear whether the shooter was on foot or in a vehicle. Shot Spotter recorded several incidents of gunfire at the location, including one burst of 29 rounds. No arrests have been made in connection with the shooting.
Anyone with information about the incident is urged to contact Birmingham homicide detectives or Crime Stoppers. Vanderbilt leaves behind five young children. According to those close to him, he had a close relationship with all of his children and was known for being a family-oriented person.
Vanderbilt worked for the City of Birmingham and had his own car-washing business as well as being a barber. A GoFundMe page has been set up to help Vanderbilt’s family with funeral expenses. His sister, TyShay Murphy, wrote on the donation page that “We are all devastated by RahKeem’s loss.
RahKeem was a loving and supportive brother, cousin, nephew, father, and uncle who could make anyone smile.” The loss of Vanderbilt has left his family and community heartbroken, and he will be deeply missed by all who knew him.
