Birmingham nightclub president speaks out after deadly shooting

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. (WIAT) — Two men who police say shot each other at a Birmingham nightclub early Friday morning have died.

Terrance Brown Jr., 32, died at the scene while Shane Gady, 32, was pronounced dead at UAB Hospital Sunday following the incident at The Quest.

Dan Sparks, president and co-owner of the nightclub, says patrons are not allowed to bring weapons inside and is still trying to figure out how the shooting could have happened.

“We have security guards at the door, everyone who comes in is monitored and is padded as well,” Sparks told CBS 42 over the phone. “That night we had three security guards.”

Sparks believes one of the men may have used a fire exit to enter the club since the alarm was removed. He and the staff are saddened by the events that took place at his establishment.

“Something like this for any family is a terrible, terrible thing and it should never happen,” he said.

The Birmingham Police Department says this is not the first time there has been gun violence in The Quest, citing a homicide that occurred in September 2022. District 5 Councilman Darrell O'Quinn said is expressed on the issue, as the nightclub is within his jurisdiction.

“Any establishment where this type of event occurs will need to be extremely aggressive in reforming its practices and protocols if it wishes to remain open,” O’Quinn said.

In light of this tragic attack, Sparks said the club will install a better camera surveillance system and hire another security person. The Birmingham City Council plans to hold a hearing on the issue next month.