Tuscaloosa Mayor Says Fatal Shooting was Senseless Drive-By

Tuscaloosa Mayor Walt Maddox said a Sunday afternoon shooting that killed a man and a 2-year-old child was a "senseless" drive-by shooting near Freemon Park in the city's west side.

Police have not released any details about the shooting, including the identification or age of the slain victim.

Get our free mobile app

In a Facebook post, Maddox said investigators have already developed suspects in this case and that they have a long criminal history. The mayor has long decried parts of the justice that allow suspected violent offenders to leave jail on bond and re-offend before the first case is even adjudicated.

Maddox said the Tuscaloosa Police Department and the multi-agency Violent Crimes Unit will

be "relentless" in pursuing the suspects.
"Lastly, based on my experiences, there were people who knew that a drive-by shooting could happen," Maddox wrote. "Our humanity must compel us to do everything in our power to save lives. If you know something, say something. Our prayers are with everyone whose hearts are heavy tonight."

Anyone with information on the killing is asked to immediately call the Violent Crimes Unit at 205-464-8690.

UPDATE: Police Chief Brent Blankley said the slain victim was a man in his 20's and a 2-year-old child was seriously injured in this shooting.

UPDATE: The Violent Crimes Unit has confirmed the 2-year-old shot Sunday has succumbed to his injuries, bringing the shooting's death toll to two victims.