Birmingham's New Year's Eve: Fewer Shots, More Safety
Birmingham experienced a notable decrease in gunfire incidents during the 2026 New Year's Eve celebrations. The city's gunfire detection system, Shot Spotter, recorded 4,688 rounds in 597 incidents. This is a significant reduction compared to previous years:
- 2024: 6,270 rounds in 948 incidents
- 2023: 11,728 rounds in 1,531 incidents
Operation Close Out: A Success Story
The Birmingham Police Department deployed over 100 officers for Operation Close Out, an initiative aimed at:
- Preventing celebratory gunfire
- Catching drunk drivers
- Monitoring crowded bars and clubs
The operation resulted in a 37% drop in gunfire incidents compared to the previous year.
Close Calls and Ongoing Investigations
Despite the progress, there were some concerning incidents:
- A report of a person grazed by a bullet on First Avenue North
- A stray bullet hitting a gas tank or line on 28th Street in Ensley
Police are yet to confirm these reports.
The Evolution of Operation Close Out
Operation Close Out evolved from Operation Crack Down, initiated by former Chief A. C. Roper. After a New Year's Eve service disrupted by nearby gunfire, Roper sought a citywide solution to curb illegal gunfire and enhance public safety.
Current Chief Michael Pickett expanded on this foundation. His team analyzed Shot Spotter data and call logs from the previous year, identifying hotspots and deploying officers as a deterrent. The operation also included detectives and specialized teams to support patrol officers.
Key Achievements
- Visible presence and rapid response to gunshots and violent incidents
- Multiple DUI arrests and gun recoveries
- No homicides reported during the initiative
