Gunfire Claims Life of Aspiring Local Artist “PaperChaser Zay” on Graymont Avenue West
BIRMINGHAM, Ala. — A late-night burst of gunfire shattered the quiet of Graymont Avenue West on Wednesday night, ending the life of a young man known in the community as PaperChaser Zay, a local artist whose ambition and drive had earned him both respect and admiration. The shooting occurred around 11:25 p.m., prompting an immediate response from Birmingham police after the city’s gunfire detection system was activated.
When officers arrived at the scene — a stretch of Graymont Avenue just west of downtown — they found a vehicle riddled with bullet holes. Inside the car, Zay was discovered unresponsive and suffering from multiple gunshot wounds. Despite the swift arrival of first responders, he was pronounced dead at the scene.
He was believed to be in his mid-20s.
A Burst of Violence in the Night
Witnesses in the area reported hearing more than ten shots ring out in rapid succession. Several nearby residents initially believed the sounds were fireworks, until the flashing blue lights and police activity confirmed the grim reality.
“It was just a regular night, and then boom — it sounded like a war zone,” said Carla Jenkins, a longtime resident who lives just two blocks from the scene. “I looked out my window and saw people running. It’s heartbreaking — we’re losing our young men far too often.”
Police have not released any information about potential suspects, and no arrests have been made as of Thursday morning. Investigators say it is still unclear whether Zay was targeted or if the shooting stemmed from a separate altercation.
Who Was PaperChaser Zay?
Though his legal name has not yet been released by authorities, PaperChaser Zay was a well-known figure in the Birmingham music and creative scene. Friends say he was an aspiring rapper, a dedicated father, and a relentless hustler whose nickname reflected more than just street slang — it embodied his ambition to rise above difficult circumstances and provide for his loved ones.
“Zay wasn’t in the streets like that. He was focused on music, trying to build something,” said Marcus D., a close friend and collaborator. “He had big dreams and a good heart. It’s hard to believe he’s gone.”
On social media, tributes began pouring in just hours after news of his death spread. The hashtag #RIPZay trended locally on platforms like Instagram and Twitter, with dozens of posts sharing memories, videos, and lyrics from his music.
Community Mourning Another Life Lost
Zay’s death marks another tragic chapter in Birmingham’s ongoing battle with gun violence. According to Birmingham Police Department statistics, the city has seen a troubling uptick in shootings involving young men under 30 — many of them unsolved.
“This is another young Black man whose life ended way too soon,” said Pastor Elijah Ford, who leads a nearby church and community outreach program. “We’re tired of burying our sons, our brothers, our neighbors. We need answers, and we need action.”
Community activists have long called for increased resources for violence prevention, mental health support, and economic opportunities in neighborhoods like the one where Zay was killed.
Police Seek Public’s Help
Police say the investigation is ongoing and are asking anyone with information, including witnesses or surveillance footage, to come forward.
“This is an active and fluid investigation,” said Birmingham Police Sgt. LaQuitta Wade. “We believe someone in the community saw or heard something that could help us bring justice to this young man’s family.”
Anonymous tips can be submitted to Crime Stoppers at 205-254-7777.
A Legacy of Hustle and Hope
Though his life was cut tragically short, those who knew PaperChaser Zay say his energy, ambition, and loyalty will be remembered long after the sirens fade and the headlines pass.
“He was more than a name in a headline,” said Jasmine Taylor, a cousin. “He was kind, he loved his daughter, and he always said he was going to make it — for all of us. I just wish he’d had more time.”
A candlelight vigil is being planned by friends and family for later this week on Graymont Avenue, where Zay took his last breath — in the same neighborhood he once called home, full of dreams, lyrics, and the unshakable belief that better days were coming.
Rest in peace, Zay.
Your voice was heard. Your grind was real. You will not be forgotten.
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