A 23-year-old man killed in the shooting at a Sweet 16 birthday party in Alabama over the weekend did not attend the party but only went there to check on a younger family member who was concerned there might be trouble.

Corbin Dahmontrey Holston was one of four people fatally shot Saturday night when gunfire erupted inside the private event venue Mahogany’s Masterpiece, also injuring 28 others.

Also killed were Philstavious Dowdell, 18, Shaunkivia Nicole “Keke” Smith, 17, both seniors at Dadeville High School and Marsiah Emmanuel “Siah” Collins, 19.

The party was for Dowdell’s sister.

“Out of concern for other family members, Corbin responded to the party to ensure their safety but unfortunately encountered the suspects,’’ his mother, Janett Heard, told AL.com.

“Corbin was selfless when it came to his family and friends and always tried to be a protector,’’ Heard said. “That’s just the type of person he was.”

At least one younger relative of Holston was at the party and called him because there “was a serious concern,” said another family member who did not want to be identified.

Shortly after Holston arrived, the shooting started. “If not for the concern of the family member, he would not have been there,’’ the family member said.

Holston was able to pull his younger relative to safety before Holston was killed.

Holston’s family said they received a call that he had been shot and to get to the hospital immediately. It was then they learned he did not survive.

Holston graduated from Dadeville High School in 2018. Those who knew him described him as loving and caring.

“He was not perfect by any means, but he was caring and considerate,’’ Heard said. “He loved his family and this community.”

“I want people to remember he was selfless,’’ said the other family member. “He had more concern for family and friends than himself. If anybody needed him, he wouldn’t hesitate to respond.”

Holston’s family addressed graphic photos and videos of the shooting’s aftermath that have been shared on some social media sites.

“We are devastated by this loss,’’ Heard said, “and we would ask that people be considerate and not share pictures, videos and misleading assumptions during this time while all families grieve and process the loss of their beloved family members.”