Two dead, 14 shot in downtown Montgomery; police declare 'mass casualty incident'

Montgomery, Alabama; Two people were killed and 12 others injured in a late-night shooting in the heart of downtown Montgomery on Saturday, prompting police to declare a “mass casualty incident.” Authorities said the gunfire erupted around 11.30 pm near Bibb and Commerce streets, a popular area for tourists and nightlife.

The violent incident unfolded close to the Rosa Parks Museum, drawing a massive emergency response. Police confirmed that 14 people had suffered gunshot wounds – two fatally, including a woman. Three others remained in critical condition on Sunday morning, while nine sustained non-life-threatening injuries.

Police describe ‘senseless act of violence’

Talking to Daily Star, Montgomery Police Chief Jim Graboys described the shooting as a “senseless act of violence” involving two opposing groups who opened fire into a crowd.

“At approximately 11.30pm, units responded to a mass shooting event at the corner of Bibb and Commerce Street. We have confirmed there are 14 victims. Two are deceased. Three are life threatening and nine are non-life threatening at present,” Graboys said.

He continued: “And as I compose myself in relation to this senseless act of violence, I am going to state specifically that we will use every resource, we will stay up all night, we will do whatever we need to do and use every resource to charge and hold the people responsible who were involved in this offence.”

Graboys said investigators were working through the night, using “every technological resource” available.

“My heart is weeping for the families and I am incredibly angry because this was not a typical mass shooting that people read about. This was two parties that were involved that were shooting at each other in a crowd. I know enough to say that right now,” he said.

He added, “Now we have 14 people wounded shot, two of them deceased. We will not rest until we get you.”

Victims include juveniles

According to Montgomery Advertiser, police spokesperson Lt. Tina McGriff confirmed that one of the victims killed was an adult woman. At least two juveniles were among the injured, one of whom suffered life-threatening wounds.

“In total, three victims remain in life-threatening condition, and nine sustained non-life threatening injuries,” McGriff said.

She added that detectives were “actively pursuing leads and reviewing evidence, including witness statements and surveillance footage.” Police have urged anyone with information to come forward, stressing that “even the smallest detail could be critical” in identifying those responsible.

Shooting followed major local football event

The mass shooting occurred just hours after a football game between Tuskegee University and Morehouse College drew large crowds to the downtown area. The city had set up a Ferris wheel and other attractions nearby as part of the weekend festivities.

Montgomery Mayor Steven Reed condemned the violence and vowed accountability. “We're going to use every resource we have to bring all those involved in this to justice. Whether it's tonight, whether it's tomorrow, whether it's next week or whether it's next month, we won't rest,” Reed said.

Reed added that police were already patrolling “within 50 feet of both sides” of the scene when the gunfire broke out.

Investigation underway

A large section of Bibb Street remained cordoned off on Sunday as investigators combed through the chaotic crime scene. Police said several people were being questioned in connection with the incident, but no arrests had been confirmed as of Sunday morning.

Authorities have not yet released the names of the victims.