BIRMINGHAM, Alabama -- The Tuesday night shooting death of a 22-year-old aspiring rapper has been ruled self-defense, authorities said today.

The Jefferson County District Attorney's Office said the shooter acted in self-defense when he shot Deandrea Thomas, known to many as Teddy T or Big Teddy.

Birmingham police spokesman Sgt. Johnny Williams Jr. said detectives learned that Thomas attacked the shooter, hitting him with his fist and banging his head against the wall while choking him. No charges will be filed against the shooter, who hasn't been named.

The fatal shooting happened about 4:45 p.m. Tuesday at 556 Avenue V. Police and rescue workers arrived to find Thomas dead on the ramp that led to the front porch of the house there.

Family members of Thomas already had planned a candlelight vigil to be held tonight at North Pratt Park.