Saturday night two Birmingham Police officers were shot. Sergeant Wytasha Carter has died from his wounds and the second officer remains in critical condition.
On Sunday, Alabama Governor Kay Ivey (R) announced the tragic news of Sergeant Carter’s wounds.
“We began today with the heartbreaking news that Birmingham Police Sergeant Wytasha Carter was killed in the line of duty and a second officer still remains in critical condition,” Gov. Ivey said. “On behalf of the entire state of Alabama, I offer my deepest sympathies and prayers as we all mourn the death of Sergeant Carter, which came far too soon. This is a terrible loss for Sergeant Carter’s loved ones, his fellow law enforcement officers and our entire state. Let us keep Sergeant Carter, his wife and children close to our hearts during this difficult time.”
“I offer my fervent prayers to the second officer still fighting to stay alive,” Ivey continued. “I also pray for the doctors, nurses and staff working to help this officer survive the tragedy. To this officer, know that the people of Alabama stand behind you.”
“We must never forget the tremendous sacrifice that our law enforcement make each and every day,” Ivey concluded. “We certainly will always remember Birmingham Police Sergeant Wytasha Carter and his ultimate sacrifice for the people of Birmingham who he served so well.”
“Sgt. Wytasha Carter laid down his life for the city he served,” Birmingham Mayor Randall Woodfin said. “This husband and father was a true public servant and will be honored by each of us.”
“As this investigation continues, I ask that everyone pause and reflect on how our Birmingham police officers go out every day to protect our community,” Mayor Woodfin added. “We also remain in prayer for the second officer who was shot along with Sgt. Carter. He is currently in critical condition.”
“This tragedy is a heartbreaking reminder of the dangers all law enforcement face while we sleep,” U.S. Attorney Jay Town said. “While they keep us safe. While they do the job. Our thoughts and prayers are with the families of the officers, the officer still fighting for life, and the fallen officer whose end of watch came much too soon.”
“As the scripture teaches us, “Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends.”” Woodfin concluded. “Each day, Birmingham police officers risk their lives when they report for duty. This is a time of mourning for our city, but please know our police officers will be dedicated to justice and continued service for the people of Birmingham.”
Wytasha Carter was highly respected in the Birmingham Police force.
“He was just driven,’’ said his supervisor, Lt. Shelia Finney. “He was a great sergeant. I enjoyed working with him.’’
Sgt. Carter was killed in the line of duty as he investigated car burglaries in the 900 block of Fifth Avenue North. Th other officer is being treated at UAB Hospital.
The police have apprehended two suspects. The case remains under investigation.
