U.S. Senators Tuberville, Britt respond to mass shooting and crime situation in Montgomery

Alabama’s two U.S. senators have issued responses following the mass shooting in Montgomery that left two people dead and 12 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.

“I am deeply disturbed by what took place in Alabama’s capital city last night,” Tuberville posted on X yesterday. “Crime has become too common in Montgomery, and this cannot continue. It’s past time for city leadership to take responsibility and put an end to this. My prayers are with the victims and their families of last night’s horrific shooting.”

Tuberville, a Republican, is running for governor in 2026. He has previously indicated that as governor, he would not be opposed to bringing in the National Guard if that would help.

“Wesley and I are heartbroken for our community and ask that you please join us in lifting up the victims and their families in prayer,” Britt said. She and her family live in Montgomery. “I’m closely monitoring the ongoing investigation. Everyone responsible for this heinous, senseless violence must be brought to justice. ”

At a news conference yesterday, Montgomery Mayor Steven Reed said that the city is already responding to crime through budgeting, equipment, officer retention and recruitment. He said he wants to discuss solutions, such as the state’s laws on  permitless carry, repeat offenders and bail/bonding. He said he supports changing legislation and not to do the same thing over and over again.

“I don’t think downtown Montgomery is unsafe,” Reed said. He said the mayors of other cities in Alabama are also dealing with crime.