Masked Gunman Killed In McDonald’s Shooting Identified

BIRMINGHAM, AL - A masked gunman who opened fire inside a McDonald's restaurant on Lomb Avenue in Birmingham has been identified. The 24-year-old gunman, Antonio Demond Sanders, was shot and killed by an armed witness to the shooting.

A report by Alabama Media Group said the shooting happened about 10:45 p.m. October 28. Birmingham police spokesman Sgt. Bryan Shelton said the restaurant was closing for the night and the manager was unlocking the door to let out a father and his two teen sons.

As the door was opened, a masked man burst inside and opened fire.The exiting customer was able to return fire, striking the masked man who died at UAB Hospital. (For more updates on this story and free news alerts for your neighborhood, sign up for your local Patch morning newsletter.)

Initial police scanner reports said the shooting may have happened during a robbery, but police have not confirmed whether Sanders was intending to rob the restaurant or was targeting someone inside the restaurant.

Court records show Sanders pleaded guilty in July to possession of marijuana and carrying a pistol without a license. He entered the plea after taking part in The Dannon Project program. During his time in the program, according to a letter on file from a court advocate, Sanders completed a mental toughness program orientation and started several occupational training classes, including success lab courses and financial literacy. He had decided to pursue certification in forklift operation.

Sanders' probabtion was revoked Monday before Sanders had been identified as the person killed over the weekend.

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