Attorney speaks about Delmar Drive attack

MOBILE, Ala. (WALA) - Mobile Police arrested 44-year-old Terry Rawls on assault charges for an attack that left Matthew Owens in critical condition. Rawls is now represented by attorney Dennis Knizley.

"He hasn't been arraigned yet, but he'll enter a plea of not guilty," Knizley said.

Police said the fight started after Owens allegedly yelled at some kids for playing in the street. Police say after the kids left, a group came after Owens. Both police and Knizley deny this was a hate crime.

"To even ask that question in a public form it does nothing but create divisiveness in our community. Race isn't a legal issue in this case, and we're not going to contribute any sensationalism by even commenting on that," said Knizley.

FOX10 tried to contact Alexander Almond, the attorney for the Owens' family. He told us his client has asked him not to speak. Police said more arrests in this attack are possible as the investigation continues.

After Rawls' arrest, police said he and Owens do have a history of disputes together that dates back to 2009. They said the attack stemmed from that history.

Police said more arrests in the attack are possible as the investigation continues.