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Montgomery Mass Shooting Suspect Freed on $60,000 Bail Prompts Push to Expand Aniah’s Law

State and local officials argue judges need authority to deny bail in attempted murder cases.

Overview

  • Nineteen-year-old Javorick Whiting, charged with attempted murder in the Oct. 4 downtown shooting, was released from the Montgomery County jail on a $60,000 bond, the legal maximum for that charge.
  • The shooting left two people dead and 12 injured, and four suspects have been arrested, including three charged with capital murder and related assaults.
  • Governor Kay Ivey condemned the release and highlighted a May 19, 2026 statewide vote on expanding Aniah’s Law to include solicitation, attempt, or conspiracy to commit murder.
  • Mayor Steven Reed called the bond a slap in the face, and Police Chief James Graboys warned of repeat violence and urged stronger judicial partnership and bail reforms.
  • Mayor Reed said District Attorney Azzie Oliver is reviewing options regarding the release, and Attorney General Steve Marshall criticized a system that lets violent offenders post bond.