Death From New COVID-19 Variant; Tornado Relief: The Week In News

BIRMINGHAM, AL — The coronavirus pandemic continues to dominate headlines on Patch these days, as at least one new vaccine site has opened in Birmingham, with more on the way, and the UK variant of the virus claimed the life of a Birmingham man this past week.

The Birmingham man was 35 years old, and became the first person from Alabama to die from the new variant of the coronavirus.

Also in the news this past week, the Fultondale community continued its clean-up efforts after the EF-3 tornado devastated the city the previous week. The city filed paperwork Monday requesting federal aid.

Here are those are other stories that made headlines this past week on Patch:

City Of Fultondale Seeks Federal Aid After Tornado

The city completed a report Monday assessing the damage of the storm and will submit to federal authorities for help.

Faster-Spreading Coronavirus Variant Kills Birmingham Man

A faster-spreading variant of the coronavirus that was first identified in the United Kingdom, known as B 1.1.7, has claimed the life of a Birmingham man.

Former Mayor William Bell To Enter 2021 Mayor's Race

The Birmingham mayor's race is starting to take shape, as now four candidates — including incumbent Randall Woodfin — have announced their intentions on running. The latest to throw his hat in the ring is former mayor William Bell.

Former Employee Charged In Trussville Walmart Shooting

A Pinson man who was working at the Walmart on Chalkville Mountain Road now faces charges after an altercation led to shots being fired inside the store.

Hoover Met Opens For Drive-By COVID-19 Vaccinations

The University of Alabama at Birmingham opened its drive-by COVID-19 vaccination clinic at the Hoover Met Tuesday, and university officials say they hope to administer up to 1,000 vaccines a day at the location.