Tarrant, Alabama tragedy claims life of Birmingham woman after gunfire erupts during holiday weekend gathering

TARRANT, Ala. — A holiday weekend gathering in Tarrant turned into tragedy when gunfire erupted outside a residence late Saturday night, leaving one woman dead and authorities searching for those responsible. The Jefferson County Coroner’s Office confirmed the victim as 35-year-old Kristy Denise Harrison of Birmingham, whose life was cut short in a matter of moments.

According to police, the incident occurred at approximately 10:40 p.m. on August 30 in the 1400 block of Ford Avenue. Witnesses reported chaos breaking out as multiple rounds were fired from a passing vehicle toward the home where Harrison had been attending a gathering. Investigators believe the suspects deliberately targeted the residence but have determined Harrison was not the intended victim.

Police Chief Wendell Major explained that the violence stemmed from an earlier altercation that had taken place that same afternoon. Around 4 p.m., authorities were called to the same location after a dispute between two women escalated into threats and shots fired at the home. No one was injured during that initial incident, but the tension remained unresolved.

Later that night, the conflict turned deadly when suspects returned and opened fire on the residence while Harrison and others were inside and outside the home. Harrison was struck multiple times, and despite emergency efforts, she was pronounced dead at the scene at 10:49 p.m. Authorities emphasized that Harrison was not involved in the dispute and tragically became an unintended casualty.

The shooting has shaken residents in the community, who are struggling to come to terms with the violence that unfolded during what should have been a weekend of family and celebration. Neighbors described hearing bursts of gunfire and witnessing the panic that followed, with several people running for cover as bullets struck the home.

As of now, no arrests have been made, but police continue to follow leads as they search for the suspects responsible. Investigators are urging anyone with information about the shooting to come forward, stressing that community cooperation is crucial to bringing justice to Harrison and her grieving family.

This marks the second homicide reported in Tarrant in 2025, adding to growing concerns about violence in the area. Local leaders and community advocates have renewed calls for conflict resolution and stronger efforts to prevent disputes from escalating into deadly encounters.

Family members and friends of Harrison are mourning her sudden loss, describing her as a vibrant and caring individual whose presence will be deeply missed. The circumstances of her passing have left loved ones devastated, with many struggling to understand how a disagreement between others could lead to such an irreversible tragedy.

Authorities continue to piece together the events of that day, focusing on the earlier confrontation and the suspects who returned hours later to carry out the shooting. Chief Major has vowed that his department will not rest until those responsible are identified and held accountable.

Anyone with information is urged to contact the Tarrant Police Department at 205-849-2811. Anonymous tips can also be provided to Crime Stoppers, as investigators seek the community’s help in solving this case and preventing further violence.