Birmingham Police Officer Shot In Woodlawn, Teen Suspect Charged

BIRMINGHAM, AL — A Birmingham police officer working security at Church of the Highlands Sunday morning in Woodlawn was shot after he confronted two robbery suspects. The incident occurred just before 9:30 a.m. in the 5400 block of Georgia Road.

Sgt. Johnny Williams of the Birmingham Police Department said the officer, 46-year-old John Finke, observed a suspect vehicle believed to be involved in a recently reported robbery near his location. Finke confronted the suspects and gunfire was exchanged between the officer and suspect, Williams said.

During the exchange, the officer was struck by gunfire and seriously injured. The suspects managed to escape the location, but were eventually located in the 2200 block of Bessemer Road. Two suspects, a 16-year-old male and a 25-year-old male, were taken into custody without further incident. Responding officers located property that was reported taken during the robbery along with a handgun.

Jahmari Leshaun Wright, 16, is charged as an adult with attempted murder and shooting into an unoccupied vehicle.

Finke remains in serious condition and has undergone surgery.

"Tonight we wrap our arms around officer John Finke, his family and the entire Birmingham Police Department," said Mayor Randall Woodfin. "Our officers risk their lives each and every time they step out of their doors for the betterment of our communities"

"This tragedy is a heartbreaking reminder of the dangers all law enforcement face," said U.S Attorney Jay Town in a statement Sunday afternoon. "While they keep us safe. While they do the job. Our thoughts and prayers are with Detective Finke, his family, and all of Birmingham PD. We should never forget that the line of duty is endowed by sacrifice, selflessness, and courage."