Montgomery, Alabama — Third Arrest Made in Deadly Downtown Mass Shooting That Claimed Two Lives and Injured Twelve
The Montgomery Police Department (MPD) has announced a third arrest in connection with the October 4th downtown Montgomery mass shooting, a tragic and chaotic event that claimed two lives and left twelve others wounded. The department confirmed Thursday that 19-year-old Javorick Whiting has been taken into custody and formally charged with one count of attempted murder.
Authorities said Whiting was apprehended Thursday and is currently being held at the Montgomery County Detention Facility. A video shared by MPD on social media shows the moment Whiting was escorted by officers and placed into a police car, marking another significant development in a case that has shaken the Montgomery community to its core.
Background of the Shooting
The deadly shooting took place in the early morning hours of October 4, 2025, in Montgomery’s downtown entertainment district — an area typically known for nightlife, community gatherings, and local events. According to police, what began as a confrontation quickly escalated into gunfire, resulting in the deaths of two victims and injuries to at least twelve others.
Witnesses described a chaotic scene, with people running for cover as multiple shots rang out near several popular establishments. First responders arrived within minutes, securing the area and providing aid to the injured. Several victims were transported to local hospitals, some in critical condition.
The incident sent shockwaves through Montgomery, a city that in recent years has taken great strides toward revitalizing its downtown and fostering a sense of unity and safety among residents.
Ongoing Investigation and Prior Arrests
Whiting’s arrest follows two earlier apprehensions connected to the shooting. On Monday, authorities arrested 19-year-old Dantavious McGhee, who is also facing charges related to the attack. Prior to that, police confirmed the arrest of an unidentified juvenile male last Friday, believed to have been directly involved in the incident.
Investigators have been working tirelessly since the shooting, gathering evidence, analyzing surveillance footage, and conducting interviews. MPD has indicated that the investigation remains active and ongoing, with more arrests expected in the coming days as detectives continue to identify and locate additional suspects.
Police Chief Darrell Albert praised the efforts of law enforcement officers, investigators, and community members who have come forward with information, emphasizing that cooperation from the public has been instrumental in advancing the case.
“We are pursuing every lead and will not stop until every individual involved in this senseless act of violence is held accountable,” Chief Albert said in a statement.
Community Reaction and Call for Peace
The October 4th mass shooting has deeply affected Montgomery residents, particularly families of the victims and those injured. Community leaders, clergy members, and city officials have gathered at vigils and community meetings to denounce the violence and call for unity and reform.
Mayor Steven Reed expressed his condolences to the families of those lost, reaffirming the city’s commitment to preventing such tragedies in the future.
“Our hearts go out to the victims, their families, and everyone impacted by this devastating act,” Mayor Reed said. “Montgomery will continue to work together — as one community — to stop the violence and bring peace to our streets.”
Residents have responded with both grief and determination, calling for greater efforts to address youth violence, access to firearms, and community outreach programs.
How to Help and Provide Information
The Montgomery Police Department continues to urge anyone with knowledge about the shooting or the individuals involved to come forward. Even the smallest detail, authorities say, could be crucial to bringing justice to the victims and their families.
Anyone with information is asked to contact:
- CrimeStoppers at (334) 215-STOP (7867)
- Secret Witness Line at (334) 625-4000
- Montgomery Police Department directly at (334) 625-2831
Anonymous tips are welcome, and rewards may be available for information leading to additional arrests.
A City in Mourning, Seeking Justice
As the investigation continues, the people of Montgomery are left to grapple with the aftermath of yet another senseless act of violence. The tragedy has left scars on families, friends, and an entire community striving for healing.
While the arrests bring hope that justice is on the horizon, they also serve as a stark reminder of the ongoing challenges communities face in combating gun violence and restoring peace to neighborhoods once filled with laughter, music, and life.
In time, Montgomery will heal — but for now, the focus remains on the pursuit of truth, accountability, and honoring the memory of those who were lost too soon.
