Mayor Steven Reed Addresses Public Safety, Veterans Memorial Park, and Community Support During Holiday Season

Montgomery, AL - In a media availability held earlier today, Mayor Steven L. Reed provided a comprehensive update on public safety, community initiatives, and support efforts for Montgomery residents ahead of the Thanksgiving holiday.

Mayor Reed began by addressing the recent mass shooting that deeply impacted the city. He confirmed that five individuals have been arrested in connection with the incident, including three charged with Capital Murder and assault on twelve other victims. One suspect, Javoric Whiting, was released on bond after a judge denied the District Attorney's request for an increase, citing the suspect's lack of prior criminal history.

"All but one of the hospitalized victims are expected to survive," said Mayor Reed. "One remains in critical condition, and we ask that everyone keep that individual and their family in your prayers."

The Mayor emphasized that the investigation remains active, with law enforcement working to identify additional suspects who may have assisted the shooters.

"You can't outrun science or forensics," he said. "Time is on the side of our investigators."

Despite the tragedy, Mayor Reed highlighted encouraging trends in citywide crime reduction. Violent crime is down nearly 24%, nonviolent crime by 12%, and overall crime by 14% compared to this time last year.

"That's progress worth noting," he said, "but even one life lost is one too many."

Honoring Veterans with a New Memorial Park

Mayor Reed also announced the launch of the Veterans Memorial Park fundraising campaign. The 14-acre park, located at 2390 Congressman W. L. Dickinson Drive, will serve as a lasting tribute to America's veterans and a gathering space for Montgomery families. The park will feature a memorial walk, flag plaza, landscaped gardens, a water feature, walking trails, picnic areas, and an accessible playground.

The $1.28 million project will be funded through a combination of city support and community donations.

"Whether it's $10, $100, or $1,000 - every donation helps us honor those who've given so much," said Mayor Reed.

Supporting Families Through the Holidays

As the city prepares for Thanksgiving, Mayor Reed called on residents to support neighbors affected by recent economic challenges, including the federal government shutdown and reductions in SNAP benefits. Approximately 14% of Alabamians - over 700,000 people - have been impacted, including more than 53,000 in Montgomery County. Additionally, around 4,000 federal employees in the city are currently without pay.

"We must step up - as individuals, churches, nonprofits, and civic organizations - to support those in our care," said Mayor Reed. A list of local assistance programs is available at https://www.montgomeryal.gov.

Celebrating Community and History

Mayor Reed also invited the public to two upcoming events that reflect the spirit of the season and the city's legacy:

• Gobble Wobble 5K: Taking place the morning after Thanksgiving, this family-friendly run celebrates health, community, and fun.
• 70th Anniversary of the Montgomery Bus Boycott: In December, the city will commemorate this pivotal moment in civil rights history.

"We celebrate the courage of Rosa Parks, the leadership of Dr. King, and the resolve of those who demanded equality," said Mayor Reed. "But we also remember that their work isn't finished."

A City That Rises

"From strengthening public safety, to honoring our veterans, to lifting up families and celebrating our shared history - this is what it means to move Montgomery forward together," said Mayor Reed. "Together, we're proving that Montgomery is a city that rises - and a city that cares."

Watch the full media avail here: https://www.youtube.com/live/xGiXilGClcU?si=Q9aSAquYl5QYoy3g