HOOVER, AL — Tragedy at Walk-On’s Sports Bistreaux: Pregnant Woman Critically Injured in Workplace Shooting, Unborn Child Lost

HOOVER, AL — Tragedy at Walk-On’s Sports Bistreaux: Pregnant Woman Critically Injured in Workplace Shooting, Unborn Child Lost

HOOVER, AL — In a heart-wrenching incident that has sent shockwaves through the Hoover community, a shooting at a popular restaurant on the afternoon of Saturday, June 14, 2025, has left a young pregnant woman critically injured and claimed the life of her unborn child.

The shooting unfolded around 2:30 p.m. at Walk-On’s Sports Bistreaux, a well-known family-friendly restaurant located in the Tattersall Park development, a bustling area often filled with weekend diners and families. According to Hoover Police Department officials, the violence stemmed from a dispute between two employees during a busy shift. What began as an apparent argument quickly escalated into a tragic act of gun violence.

Authorities say the victim, a 22-year-old woman who was employed at the restaurant and known among coworkers for her kind spirit and strong work ethic, was shot by a fellow employee in a back area of the establishment, away from customers. The woman, who was in her third trimester of pregnancy, sustained at least one gunshot wound and was rushed to UAB Hospital in Birmingham by emergency medical responders in critical condition. Despite extensive efforts by medical staff, her unborn child could not be saved.

As of Saturday evening, the woman remains hospitalized in critical but stable condition. Her identity has not been released by authorities at this time out of respect for her family and ongoing investigative procedures.

Hoover Police officers quickly secured the restaurant and detained the alleged shooter at the scene without further incident. Investigators say the suspect, identified as a male co-worker of the victim, was taken into custody and is being held at the Hoover City Jail pending formal charges. Preliminary reports indicate that the altercation was personal in nature, though officials have not released a motive.

The Jefferson County District Attorney’s Office is expected to file multiple charges, including attempted murder and capital murder for the death of the unborn child — a charge that Alabama law allows when a fetus is killed during the commission of a violent felony.

Hoover Police Department spokesman Lt. Keith Czeskleba addressed the media late Saturday, expressing the department’s deep sorrow over the incident and affirming their commitment to justice.

“This is a devastating situation. Our hearts go out to the victim, her family, and everyone affected by today’s senseless act of violence,” said Lt. Czeskleba. “This should never have happened — not in a workplace, not anywhere. We’re grateful for the quick response of our officers and EMS, and we’re working diligently with the district attorney to bring the suspect to justice.”

Walk-On’s Sports Bistreaux released a statement Saturday evening expressing shock and sadness, noting that the restaurant will remain closed until further notice.

“We are absolutely heartbroken by what occurred today at our Hoover location. Our thoughts and prayers are with our injured team member and her family. We are fully cooperating with local authorities during their investigation and providing support services to our staff.”

The community of Hoover, a city often recognized for its family-oriented atmosphere and safe neighborhoods, is reeling from the news. Candlelight vigils and social media tributes have already begun to surface, with locals expressing support for the victim and condemning the violence.

A GoFundMe campaign has reportedly been established by friends and co-workers to support the victim with medical expenses and to help with the grieving process following the loss of her child. Many in the community have rallied behind her, describing her as a bright, caring young woman with a promising future and a deep excitement about becoming a mother.

One co-worker, who asked not to be named, said, “She always had a smile on her face. She was so excited for her baby. This just doesn’t make any sense. We’re all heartbroken.”

The investigation remains active, with police continuing to interview witnesses and review surveillance footage from the restaurant. Authorities are also asking anyone with information about the incident to contact the Hoover Police Department directly.

As Hoover begins to grapple with the pain of this tragedy, residents are left reflecting on how a moment of violence can so swiftly alter the course of many lives. For now, the focus remains on supporting the victim in her recovery, mourning the life lost, and seeking justice for a young woman and the child she will never get to hold.