What began as a shouting match between two groups of people in downtown Montgomery quickly turned into chaos and tragedy late Saturday night. Witnesses say the argument, which started near a popular nightlife strip just before midnight, escalated without warning. Within moments, gunfire erupted, sending dozens of weekend revelers scrambling for cover as panic swept through the crowd.
By the time the shooting stopped, two people were dead and 14 others were wounded, several of them critically. Sirens filled the air as police and medics rushed to the scene, working desperately to stabilize the injured amid the confusion. Some victims were treated on the street, while others were transported to nearby hospitals for emergency care.
Police Chief James Graboys described the scene as “pure chaos,” noting that multiple shooters appeared to have opened fire with no regard for the people around them. “Officers were within feet of the gunfire,” Graboys said. “The attack was so sudden that there was barely any time to react.”
Detectives and crime scene technicians worked through the night, marking shell casings and collecting video footage from nearby businesses. Early reports suggest the violence stemmed from an argument between rival groups, but investigators have not released any suspect information or confirmed arrests.
The city has been left shaken by the scale of the violence, one of the deadliest incidents Montgomery has seen in years. Community leaders and clergy have urged residents to remain calm and cooperate with police as they search for those responsible.As the investigation continues, a memorial of candles and flowers is beginning to grow at the site of the shooting — a somber tribute to the two lives lost and a stark reminder of how quickly anger can turn to tragedy.
