Coronavirus Scare; Ehsan Fired At UAB: The Week In News

BIRMINGHAM, AL — The coronavirus, or COVID-19, dominated the headlines this week, as the first case of the worldwide virus was confirmed in Alabama. Gov. Kay Ivey declared a state of emergency, closing all public schools in the state for two and a half weeks.

Amid all of the COVID-19 news this past week, UAB made headlines by parting ways with head basketball coach Rob Ehsan.

In addition to those stories, here are some of the stories that made headlines on Patch this past week:

Alabama Schools Closing As Governor Declares State Of Emergency

All K-12 schools in Alabama will close for two-and-a-half weeks beginning March 18, following Gov. Kay Ivey's declaration Friday of a state of emergency over the coronavirus outbreak.

Birmingham Zoo Mourns Loss Of Parker The Red Panda

One of the Birmingham Zoo's most popular animals died unexpectedly over the weekend. Birmingham Zoo officials said Parker, the 4-year-old red panda, was found dead Sunday morning with no obvious physical injuries or any indication of illness.

Robert Ehsan Out As UAB Basketball Coach

The University of Alabama at Birmingham announced Friday that the school will search for a new men's basketball coach after the school and coach Robert Ehsan agreed to part ways.

Gambling, Lottery Bill Proposed In Alabama Senate

A new bill proposed in the Alabama Senate would legalize lottery games like Powerball and Mega Millions, and would approve casino games in the state's Poarch Creek Indian-operated casinos.

Suspect Charged In Police Shootout

A suspect has been charged after a shootout between police and a car theft suspect resulted in a Birmingham police officer being shot.