The Brief
- Community members gathered in north Minneapolis Tuesday night to honor Birdell “Birdie” Beeks, who was killed by a stray bullet 10 years ago.
- At 6:03 p.m., the city unveiled the new “Birdell Beeks Way” on 21st Avenue between Penn and Queen.
- Beeks’ family continues her legacy through the “Be the Voice” organization, supporting families impacted by gun violence.
MINNEAPOLIS (FOX 9) – A north Minneapolis neighborhood came together Tuesday night to celebrate the life and legacy of Birdell “Birdie” Beeks, a beloved grandmother killed by gang crossfire 10 years ago.
Street renaming honors Birdell Beeks’ memory
What we know:
Birdell Beeks was sitting in her minivan with her granddaughter when she was struck and killed by a stray bullet from gang crossfire. The shooting happened exactly 10 years ago at 6:03 p.m., May 26, on 21st Avenue between Penn and Queen. On Tuesday evening at that same time, the city officially renamed the stretch “Birdell Beeks Way.”
Public Works crews put up the new street sign earlier in the day, preparing for the evening’s celebration. Family and neighbors say Birdie was known as a grandmother to the entire community, remembered for her kindness and care for others.
Family keeps Birdie’s spirit alive
Why you should care:
Birdie’s daughter, Bunny Beeks, has worked hard to keep her mother’s legacy alive with the organization “Be the Voice,” which helps families impacted by gun violence. …