From Tribune staff reports
DADEVILLE — Law enforcement officials confirmed that a shooting in Dadeville left at least four people dead and multiple people wounded Saturday night. ALEA said 28 were injured, many critically.
Photos circulating on social media showed six people down inside the venue. Their condition is unknown. The wounded have been transported to local hospitals to be treated for their injuries.
Two of the fatalities have been identified as Phil Dowdell and KeKe Nicole Smith, both seniors at Dadeville High School. Smith was the manager of the basketball and track and field teams, according to the Alexander City Outlook. Dowdell, was a three sport star who committed to Jacksonville State in football.
“At approximately 11:45 p.m. Saturday, April 15, Special Agents with the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency’s (ALEA) State Bureau of Investigations (SBI) launched a death investigation at the request of the Dadeville Police Chief,” Sgt. Jeremy Burkett of the Alabama State Troopers said. “The investigation is a result of a shooting which occurred at approximately 10:34 p.m. near the 200 Block of Broadnax Street in Dadeville, located in Tallapoosa County. Currently, there have been four confirmed fatalities and multiple injuries.”
Burkett said the following agencies responded to the scene and are currently assisting with the investigation: The Dadeville Police Department, Tallapoosa County Sheriff’s Office, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), Federal Bureau of Investigations (FBI) and the 5th Circuit District Attorney’s Office.
Gov. Kay Ivey and Lt. Gov. Will Ainsworth both responded to the tragedy Sunday morning.
“This morning, I grieve with the people of Dadeville and my fellow Alabamians,” Ivey said. “Violent crime has NO place in our state, and we are staying closely updated by law enforcement as details emerge.”
“I ask all Alabamians to join me in lifting the Dadeville community toward the the Lord so He may shower everyone who suffered injury and loss with the strength, love, and consolation that only He can provide,” Ainsworth said. “’Blessed are they that mourn, for they shall be comforted’ Matthew 5:4.”
The names of the victims have not been released at this time.