Birmingham mass shooting that killed 4 still shrouded in mystery: ‘I want justice,’ victim’s mother says

Birmingham mass shooting that killed 4 still shrouded in mystery: ‘I want justice,’ victim’s mother says

Birmingham mass shooting that killed 4 still shrouded in mystery: ‘I want justice,’ victim’s mother says

**Three Weeks Later: Community Still Reeling from Hush Lounge Shooting**

 

Today marks three weeks since Birmingham police reported that multiple gunmen fired over 100 rounds—including automatic gunfire—into a crowd waiting to enter Hush Lounge on Magnolia Avenue in Southside.

 

The attack occurred just after 11 p.m. on a Saturday night, resulting in the deaths of Carlos McCain, 27; Roderick Lynn Patterson Jr., 26; Anitra Holloman, 21; and Tahj Booker, 27. Seventeen others, believed to be innocent bystanders, were injured, with wounds varying from minor to critical.

 

As of now, no arrests have been made.

 

Candance Kemp, Holloman’s mother, expressed frustration with the lack of updates from law enforcement. Holloman, a single mother and college student aspiring to be a teacher, had been working in her family’s tax preparation business. “I haven’t heard from police since they informed me of my child’s death,” Kemp said. “I have no idea how the investigation is progressing.”

 

Birmingham Police Chief Scott Thurmond reassured the public that the investigation remains a top priority. “The focus on this case is greater now than it was initially,” he stated. He emphasized that releasing information prematurely could hinder the investigation, which involves extensive evidence gathering and witness interviews.

 

Jefferson County District Attorney Danny Carr highlighted the importance of a thorough investigation. “We need to connect all the pieces to ensure accountability,” he said, adding that he believes progress is being made.

 

A reward of $100,000 is still offered for information, and over 200 tips have been submitted to Crime Stoppers and local police.

 

The mass shooting outside Hush Lounge marks the third quadruple homicide investigated by Birmingham detectives this year, with only one case resulting in arrests. Birmingham has recorded 130 homicides in 2024, on track to rival the city's deadliest years.

 

Authorities suspect the shooting was a targeted attack, possibly a murder-for-hire, aimed at at least one of the deceased. Both McCain and Patterson had previously faced charges in separate homicide cases.

 

While police investigate, the community continues to mourn. McCain's funeral took place on September 28, followed by Patterson’s on October 1. Booker and Holloman were laid to rest together on October 5. Family members recall Booker’s bravery, as he reportedly shielded Holloman during the shooting.

 

Kemp described the past weeks as an unbearable struggle. “Anitra was everything to our family,” she said. “She was my right-hand man, helping me take care of everything.”

 

Recently, she attended a meeting of What About Us, a local nonprofit supporting families affected by gun violence. “I can’t work, eat, or sleep. I’m just at a loss,” she admitted, emphasizing the need for justice. “I want to see those responsible arrested and held accountable for killing my daughter.”