Montgomery police chief releases personal statement after mass shooting

Montgomery Police Chief James Graboys has released a personal statement following the mass shooting in Montgomery that left two people dead and a dozen others injured, some critically.

As Action 8 News has reported, the shooting happened in a crowded area just before midnight Saturday, October 4, in the area around Bibb and Commerce streets, in the heart of the city’s tourist area where many events had taken place throughout the day.

The shooter hasn’t been arrested. Montgomery Police Chief James Graboys identified the victims as 17-year-old Jeremiah Morris and 43-year-old Shalanda Williams.

Chief Graboys said of the 12 injured, five have life-threatening injuries. Seven are under the age of 20, with the youngest being 16 years old. He said investigators believe one of the victims was targeted and soon after, gunfire was exchanged.

While he spoke at a news conference yesterday to address the details of the mass shooting, today he issued his own personal statement following this latest violent crime to affect the city.

Here is his statement in its entirety:

“As Chief of Police, I want to take this opportunity to update our community and media partners on the continuing efforts of the Montgomery Police Department and our law enforcement partners in the ongoing investigation into the recent shooting that has impacted our city.

“We are working diligently to solve this case and are making every effort to remain transparent throughout the process. The Montgomery Police Department has zero tolerance for violence in our city, and we are committed to protecting every resident and holding criminals accountable.

“I have full confidence in our CID investigators and law enforcement partners and anticipate all suspects involved to be prosecuted to the furthest extent of the law at the conclusion of this investigation. We are fully invested in the public safety of this city and in bringing these violent offenders to justice. We don’t just work here — this is our home, and it’s our families’ home.

“We will not accept this type of violence as normal or acceptable in Montgomery. Every lead that comes into our department will be followed to its end throughout the course of this investigation.

“I plan to hold a news conference tomorrow with Mayor Reed to provide insight into our progress and discuss our ongoing efforts. At this time, the location and time of this news conference is to be determined.

“As always, we urge anyone with information related to this case to contact CrimeStoppers at (334) 215-STOP or the Montgomery Police Department directly at (334) 625-2831. Every piece of information, no matter how small, can help bring this investigation to a successful conclusion.

“We appreciate the continued support of our community and our law enforcement partners as we work together to keep Montgomery safe.”