In a quiet suburb in Birmingham, Alabama, 44-year-old father and UPS veteran, Anthony Lamar Love Jr., was tragically shot and killed around 6 p.m. on Tuesday, April 9, 2024. He was ending his shift at the Inglenook UPS facility when the incident occurred, sparking renewed worries about workplace safety, despite authorities stating that the attack seems unrelated to his job.
Sgt. Laquitta Wade from the Birmingham Police Department depicted the scene and the effects on Love Jr.’s coworkers and the wider community, stating, “Some employees are very shaken up about what has happened here. They are scared about what has happened here.”
The Birmingham Police have identified the shooting as a targeted incident. While this information may offer some understanding, it does little to quell broader fears about sudden violence. The police, who are yet to apprehend the shooter or any suspects, are calling on anyone with information to assist in delivering some form of justice to Love Jr.’s family.
Love Jr.’s colleagues and family members, some of whom arrived at the scene visibly upset and in search of answers, are among those mourning his death. Despite their ongoing investigation, the police have been cautious to assure the public that this seems to be a singular occurrence, posing no continuous threat to the larger community. “It’s devastating for the city and his family. We want to assure the public that no one else is in danger with this being a targeted attack,” clarified Sgt. Wade.
Several individuals who interacted with Love during his delivery rounds praised his kindness and considerate demeanor. According to Cailyn Fikes, a hairstylist at The Nook, Love was always friendly and courteous. Unlike other couriers who might leave packages at the door, Love made an extra effort to deliver them inside, often to the back of the establishment.
Interestingly, a decade ago, this same UPS facility witnessed a horrific event where employees Brian Callans and Doug Hutcheson were killed by Joe Tesney, a former coworker. On September 23, 2014, Tesney, dressed in his UPS uniform, entered the facility and shot Callans and Hutcheson before taking his own life. Investigations later revealed a grudge against Hutcheson, who had recommended Tesney’s termination following a misconduct inquiry, as a partial motive for Tesney’s actions.
Bob Copus, President of Crime Stoppers of Metro Alabama, has implored anyone with information about the incident to come forward. He emphasized the importance of this for both the Love family and the Birmingham community at large. “It’s in everyone’s best interest to act. No one wishes to be part of a family grieving a violent death. By contacting Crime Stoppers, you play a part in preventing such tragedies,” said Copus. He assured that the identities of those offering tips to Crime Stoppers would remain confidential. Additionally, information can be given directly to the Birmingham Police Department.
