MONTGOMERY, Ala. (AP) — A violent altercation erupted in a crowded nightlife district in Montgomery, Alabama, on Saturday night, leaving two dead and twelve others injured. The chaos unfolded shortly after the conclusion of the Tuskegee University-Morehouse College football rivalry game, which drew many fans to the area. The incident occurred near notable landmarks such as the Hank Williams Museum, the Rosa Parks Museum, and the Alabama Statehouse, a location typically monitored by law enforcement.
The deceased individuals have been identified as 43-year-old Shalanda Williams and 17-year-old Jeremiah Morris. Among the twelve injured, five sustained life-threatening injuries, including a juvenile victim. Montgomery police have stated that as of Sunday afternoon, no arrests had been made, and an investigation is ongoing to determine the origin of the gunfire and the individuals responsible.
Montgomery Mayor Steven Reed addressed the public during a news conference, committing to a thorough investigation. He expressed the intention to apprehend not only those who fired the weapons but also anyone connected to the incident who may have had foreknowledge of the potential violence. “We’re gonna do whatever we can not only to arrest those responsible, we’re going to do whatever to arrest those connected in any way,” Reed stated, condemning the disregard for human life displayed by the shooters.
According to Montgomery Police Chief James Graboys, the police received reports of a mass shooting around 11:30 p.m. The violence erupted when one individual appeared to target a member of the crowd, prompting several others to draw their weapons and retaliate. Graboys described the scenario as two groups exchanging gunfire amidst a large crowd, stressing that the shooters exhibited a blatant lack of concern for the bystanders present.
Investigators noted that seven of the fourteen victims were under the age of 20, with the youngest only being 16 years old. Notably, at least two of the people caught in the crossfire were found to be armed. Multiple firearms and shell casings were recovered from the crime scene, and police are actively reviewing surveillance footage and interviewing witnesses to piece together the events leading up to the shooting.
This incident occurred during a particularly lively weekend for Montgomery, coinciding with Alabama State University’s homecoming football game, festivities at the Alabama National Fair at Garrett Coliseum, and the earlier football game in the vicinity. Reed highlighted the immediate response from law enforcement, noting that police patrols were stationed just 50 feet away when the shooting began. An officer was reportedly swift enough to transport one victim to the hospital before an ambulance arrived on the scene.
As the investigation continues, authorities are urging anyone with information related to the shooting to come forward. The events of that night have shocked the local community and raised concerns about public safety in such a densely populated area.
