Two Dead, Twelve Injured in Downtown Montgomery Shooting

A shooting in downtown Montgomery late Saturday night resulted in two fatalities and twelve injuries, including two juveniles, according to local authorities. The incident occurred around 11:30 p.m. near the intersection of Bibb and Commerce streets, an area bustling with activity following a football game between Tuskegee University and Morehouse College.

Montgomery Police Chief James Graboys described the event as a "mass shooting," stating that two groups exchanged gunfire amidst a crowd. "This was two parties involved that were basically shooting at each other in the middle of a crowd," Graboys said. "People who ... opened fire on each other like that did not care about the people around them when they did it. And now we have 14 people who have been shot."

Among the injured, three individuals remain in life-threatening condition, while nine others sustained non-life-threatening injuries. The identities of the victims have not been released.

Mayor Steven Reed emphasized the gravity of the situation, noting that police units were patrolling within 50 feet of the scene when the shooting occurred. "We're praying for the victims of this atrocity. We're praying for their families, their friends. We're praying for our city," Reed said. "Thousands of people have been in the city this weekend, and it only took one or two to change the entire outcome."

Authorities are actively investigating the incident, reviewing evidence, and seeking information from the public. "Detectives are actively pursuing leads and reviewing evidence, including witness statements and surveillance footage," said MPD Lt. Tina McGriff. "We are urging anyone with information related to this incident to come forward. Even the smallest detail could be critical to helping investigators identify those responsible."

Individuals with information are encouraged to contact the Montgomery Police Department at 334-625-2831 or Central Alabama CrimeStoppers at 334-215-7867.

A news conference is scheduled for noon on October 5 to provide further updates on the investigation.