BIRMINGHAM, Ala. — The community is grieving the tragic loss of 36-year-old Vanessa Ragland, who was fatally shot during an officer-involved incident on Wednesday evening, October 29, 2025, in the city’s Zion City neighborhood.

According to Birmingham Police Chief Michael Pickett, officers from the East Precinct responded just after 5 p.m. to a home in the 600 block of Brunson Avenue following reports of an altercation involving a person described as violent and “possibly armed.”

When officers arrived at the scene, the situation quickly escalated, and shots were fired. Ragland was struck during the confrontation. No officers were injured.

She was rushed to UAB Hospital, where she later died from her injuries. Her death has left family, friends, and co-workers heartbroken.

The Alabama Law Enforcement Agency’s State Bureau of Investigation (SBI) has taken over the case, as is standard procedure in officer-involved shootings. The investigation remains ongoing as authorities work to determine the events that led to the deadly encounter.

Born on April 3, 1989, Vanessa Ragland was a lifelong Birmingham resident. She attended Woodlawn High School, studied at the University of Phoenix, and worked for years as a janitor at UAB Highlands, where colleagues remember her as dedicated, kind, and always willing to help others. She also previously worked at Goodwill Industries in Birmingham.

Friends and loved ones describe Vanessa as a gentle, hardworking woman with a warm heart and a caring spirit. Her sudden and tragic passing has left the community in deep mourning, with many expressing disbelief over the loss of someone who brought positivity to those around her.

As investigators continue their work, those who knew Vanessa are left remembering her not for the way her life ended, but for the kindness, strength, and light she shared during her 36 years.

Rest in peace, Vanessa Ragland — gone too soon, but never forgotten.