Gunfire erupted in the bustling nightlife district in downtown Montgomery, the capital of Alabama, on Saturday night (October 4th), with two groups exchanging fire in the crowd. The shootout resulted in two fatalities and twelve injuries. The chaotic scene prompted authorities to investigate the cause of the gun battle and those responsible.
According to the report by the Associated Press on Monday (October 6th), the Montgomery police stated that the deceased were 43-year-old Shalanda Williams and 17-year-old Jeremiah Morris, with five of the twelve injured in critical condition, including a minor.
As of Sunday afternoon (October 5th), no suspects had been apprehended, as the police continue to urge the public to provide any leads. The shooting incident occurred just a few blocks away from the football game location of Tuskegee University and Morehouse College.
On Sunday, Montgomery Mayor Steven Reed emphasized during a press conference, “We will do everything in our power to apprehend the assailants and investigate anyone who may be involved or have knowledge related to the incident. We will not only focus on the person who pulled the trigger.”
Montgomery Police Chief James Graboys revealed that the police received a call around 11:30 p.m. that night, reporting a “mass shooting” in the downtown area near the Hank Williams Museum, Rosa Parks Museum, and Alabama Statehouse. Police officers on patrol nearby heard gunshots.
He explained that the shooting began with someone targeting one of the 14 victims, leading to several others pulling out their guns and retaliating. “During the shooting, both sides were basically shooting at each other in the crowd… without regard for those around them,” he said.
According to police data, seven of the 14 victims are under 20 years old, with the youngest being only 16 years old. At least two of the victims were also found to be armed.
Mayor Reed added that a police officer was patrolling within about 50 feet from the scene when the incident occurred. The officer promptly arrived at the scene and personally transported one injured individual to the hospital before the ambulance arrived.