Montgomery Mayor Steven Reed is still asking the public to come forward with information on the triple homicide at a Hispanic grocery store that occurred last month.
Law enforcement has already arrested one suspect, 18-year-old Jarques Butler, on Tuesday after a foot pursuit involving the Alabama Law Enforcement Aviation Unit. Butler faces two capital murder charges with a third warrant pending. He is being held without bail.
Last month, Montgomery police responded to a shooting at the Tienda Los Hermanos grocery store on the Troy Highway. Two of the victims, George Elijah Jr., 50, and Daniel Lopez, 20, were pronounced dead at the scene, while another, Romero Lopez, 43, was pronounced dead later at the hospital.
The killings come as residents in the city have become increasingly more vocal about city leadership's failure to address rising crime.
In a statement, Reed applauded police for making an arrest while stating that the case was far from over. He also reiterated the assurance of law enforcement from the beginning that illegal immigrants need not worry about speaking to law enforcement despite their immigration status.
"Montgomery Police continue to do excellent work bringing those who commit the worst offenses in our city to justice," Reed said. "This case is far from over and I have faith our officers will bring everyone involved in this heinous crime to justice. We encourage anyone with information to come forward and assist MPD, regardless of your legal status. Your help is crucial in keeping our community safe."
To connect with the author of this story or to comment, email craig.monger@1819news.com.
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