Dadeville High football player among four killed in Alabama birthday party shooting, according to Montgomery Advertiser.
Dadeville senior Philstavious Dowdell, who was known as Phil, was a football, track and basketball player who had committed to Jacksonville State for football. Weeks before his graduation, he was among the victims of a shooting at a sweet 16th birthday party at a dance studio, according to the news outlet.
Four people were killed and 28 injured, according to the Advertiser. Alabama Law Enforcement Agency Sgt. Jeremy Burkett did not identify the suspect to the news outlet, but said the suspect is “no longer a threat to the community.”
Al.com reported that about 250 people were outside the hospital where the victims were being held, waiting to hear news.
President Joe Biden’s office released a statement about the shooting that read in part:
“This morning, our nation mourns again for at least four Americans tragically killed at a teenager’s birthday party in Dadeville, Alabama, as well as two others killed last night in a crowded public park in Louisville. Jill and I are praying for their families and the many others injured and fighting for their lives as a result of this weekend’s gun violence.”
Read the full statement in the Montgomery Advertiser.
Dowdell’s grandmother, Annette Allen, spoke about her grandson with the Montgomery Advertiser.
“He was a very, very humble kid. I never messed with anyone. He always had a smile on his face,” she said.
Dowdell played wide receiver and special teams returner, helping the Tigers go 10-1 his senior season. He played guard for the basketball team and competed in the 100 and 200 meter races, winning several events both distances during his high school career.
Dadeville High School will offer counseling Monday, the Advertiser reported.
The school will offer counseling on Monday for all students. Porter also asked local clergy to reach out to families who have lost loved ones.
Jax State Football is heartbroken to lose an upcoming member of our program.
Head Football Coach Statement @RealCoachRod pic.twitter.com/3ta5nposOP
— Jax State Football (@JaxStateFB) April 16, 2023