BESSEMER, Ala. — A tragic shooting in Bessemer on Wednesday night has left a 24-year-old man dead, prompting an active homicide investigation by local authorities. The victim, identified as Willie James Johnson III of Hueytown, was fatally wounded in a shooting that took place in the 1800 block of Clarendon Avenue.
The incident occurred around 10 p.m., according to the Jefferson County Coroner’s Office. When first responders arrived on the scene, they found Johnson suffering from gunshot wounds. He was quickly transported to UAB Medical West, where medical teams attempted life-saving measures. Despite their efforts, Johnson was pronounced dead shortly after arrival.
The Bessemer Police Department has launched a full-scale investigation into the fatal shooting, which they are treating as a homicide. As of Thursday morning, authorities have not announced any arrests or released any details regarding potential suspects or motives. Investigators are continuing to collect evidence and interview witnesses in hopes of piecing together what led to the deadly encounter.
News of Johnson’s death has sent shockwaves through both the Bessemer and Hueytown communities. Family and friends describe Willie as a young man full of life, with aspirations for the future that were tragically cut short. Social media tributes poured in Thursday morning, filled with grief, disbelief, and calls for justice.
“He had a good heart and always kept people laughing,” said one friend. “He didn’t deserve to go out like this.”
Neighbors reported hearing multiple gunshots in the area around the time of the shooting. Some described seeing vehicles speeding away shortly afterward, though police have not confirmed whether they are pursuing any specific leads based on those accounts.
The area where the shooting occurred, the 1800 block of Clarendon Avenue, has seen sporadic gun violence in recent years, though residents say nothing this tragic has happened in recent memory. Local leaders are calling for increased efforts to address gun violence in Bessemer and surrounding neighborhoods.
“It’s time to come together as a community,” said a community activist Thursday morning. “We are losing too many of our young men to senseless violence. This has to stop.”
Johnson’s family is reportedly planning a vigil in his honor in the coming days. They are asking for privacy as they mourn the devastating loss of their son, brother, and friend.
Victim: Willie James Johnson III, 24, of Hueytown, AL
Date/Time of Incident: Wednesday, June 25, 2025, at 10:00 p.m.
Location: 1800 block of Clarendon Avenue, Bessemer, AL
Hospital: UAB Medical West
Status: Pronounced dead shortly after arrival
Investigation: Active homicide investigation by the Bessemer Police Department
No suspects or arrests have been announced at this time
Anyone with information about the shooting is urged to contact the Bessemer Police Department or reach out anonymously to Crime Stoppers of Metro Alabama at 205-254-7777. Tips could be crucial in bringing justice for Willie James Johnson III and helping his loved ones find closure.
