Following a mass shooting in Dadeville on Saturday night where four people were killed and at least 28 injured, officials from across the state and beyond expressed deep sadness at the senseless violence and offered condolences to the families, friends and impacted community.
"This morning, I grieve with the people of Dadeville and my fellow Alabamians,” Gov. Kay Ivey said in a statement on Twitter. “Violent crime has NO place in our state, and we are staying closely updated by law enforcement as details emerge.”
Other lawmakers conveyed broken hearts and a prayerful spirit toward Tallapoosa County.
“My heart breaks waking up to the news this morning out of Tallapoosa County,” U.S. Sen. Katie Britt (R-Montgomery) tweeted. “Please join me in lifting up the victims, their loved ones, and the Dadeville community in prayer. My office will continue to monitor the situation as details emerge.”
Heartbreaking news overnight from Dadeville,” U.S. Sen. Tommy Tuberville (R-Auburn) said. “Praying this Sunday morning for all of the victims, their families, and the entire Dadeville community.
"Heather and I are heartbroken to hear the news out of Dadeville this morning,” U.S. Rep. Barry Moore (R-Enterprise) said on Twitter. “Our prayers are with the victims, their loved ones, and the community.”
“I’m heartbroken over the news out of Dadeville, and I’m praying for both strength and peace for everyone involved in this tragedy,” U.S. Rep. Jerry Carl (R-Mobile) said.
“The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” Psalm 34:18,” U.S. Rep. Mike Rogers (R-Saks) tweeted. “There are no words for how heartbroken I am for our community. My prayers are with all the families in Dadeville this morning.”
Lt. Gov. Will Ainsworth said, "I ask all Alabamians to join me in lifting the Dadeville community toward the Lord so He may shower everyone who suffered injury and loss with the strength, love, and consolation that only He can provide. “Blessed are they that mourn, for they shall be comforted” Matthew 5:4"
U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (D-Birmingham) also offered her sympathies while also pushing for political action, ostensibly toward more gun control.
“My heart is so heavy to hear the news out of Dadeville and Louisville last night,” Sewell tweeted. “Week after week, we mourn loss of life from senseless violence and I ask my colleagues how many more will it take?
How much more death will it take before you believe enough is enough.”
According to the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA), the shooting happened Saturday around 10:30 p.m. at Mahogany Masterpiece Dance Studio. Four people were killed, including Philstavious "Phil" Dowdell, who was a senior at Dadeville High School committed to play football at Jacksonville State University in February.
More information has yet to be released, and police have asked anyone with information about the shooting to come forward.
To connect with the author of this story or to comment, email daniel.taylor@1819news.com.
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