By SPEAKIN’ OUT NEWS
Published October 2025
MONTGOMERY, Ala. — In response to a deadly downtown shooting that left two dead and 12 wounded Saturday night, Governor Kay Ivey has ordered the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA) to expand trooper patrols beyond the Capitol area into greater downtown corridors. The move comes amid visible tension between state and city leaders, as the governor also says she attempted to directly engage Montgomery’s mayor to coordinate a response — but was met with silence.
“Governor Ivey attempted to reach Montgomery Mayor Steven Reed Monday morning to offer her support. While he did not take the call, she left a voicemail to ask what she could do to help,” said Gina Maiola, the governor’s spokesperson. Ivey also requested that Reed have the city’s police chief reach out to ALEA Secretary Hal Taylor — but, according to the governor’s office, neither the mayor nor the police chief has responded.
The decision to escalate state involvement follows the chaotic gunfire event near Bibb and Commerce Streets. Authorities say multiple attackers opened fire in a crowded area, killing two and injuring 12 — including seven victims under age 20(the youngest just 16). So far, no arrests have been announced. Federal and state agencies — including ALEA, ATF, FBI, and U.S. Marshals — are assisting in the investigation.
Along with expanding trooper presence, Governor Ivey has asked the Alabama ABC Board to review alcohol-related business rules in high-traffic districts after dark and will seek legislative support to bolster law enforcement funding in Montgomery. She emphasized that “all available resources” are ready to help stabilize the city.
In contrast, Mayor Reed publicly criticized Alabama’s 2022 permit-less carry law, blaming what he called Alabama’s “lax gun laws” for enabling the violence. He expressed condolences to the victims and urged stricter gun control. “When people are willing to open fire in a crowded area, there is no legislation that can stop that kind of evil,” he said. “But there are laws that make it harder—or easier—for cities and law enforcement to keep weapons out of the wrong hands.”
Governor Ivey countered that she believes this is a moment that requires unified leadership. “Montgomery is a special place filled with history and promise. I will not stand by and allow this violence to continue,” she said.