Mobile man charged with murder after Saenger Theatre dance recital shooting that left 1 dead, another injured
MOBILE, Ala. (WALA) - One person was killed and another injured in the Sunday night dance recital shooting at downtown Mobile’s Saenger Theatre, and the shooter is in jail charged with murder, officials said.
The Mobile Police Department said officers responded to the shooting at about 6:30 p.m. They found two victims who were struck by gunfire. One was pronounced deceased, and the other was taken to a local hospital by ambulance with injuries not believed to be life threatening, police said.
The deceased victim has been identified as Carl Williams III, 27, according to the police department.
Police said Sanders was involved in an argument with Williams inside the building during the children’s dance recital. The MPD said Sanders shot Williams, with a bullet also striking a second victim in the process.
Police said the other victim, a bystander in the crowd, was shot in the ankle.
Sanders fled the area immediately after the shooting, but he later turned himself in.
“To bring this to a child’s dance recital is despicable,” Police Chief William Jackson said on the scene Sunday evening.
Mayor Sandy Stimpson released a statement on Monday, June 2:
“It is shocking that anyone would bring a loaded gun to a child’s dance recital — and even more unimaginable that someone would fire a weapon in a crowded theater, just feet from where young children were performing on stage. There is no conflict, dispute, or disagreement worth putting so many people at risk or subjecting children to such lasting trauma. It’s sickening.
Yesterday’s event brought together an incredibly talented group of young dancers and performers, whose skills have been shaped by the passionate and caring teachers at Danze 101. Those children should be celebrating an amazing performance today, not dealing with the aftermath of witnessing a fatal shooting. Please keep the family of Carl Williams in your prayers, as well as the Danze 101 students and teachers and everyone impacted by this tragic event.
We have been in close contact with our management partner, Oak View Group, to discuss the security measures that were in place last night. Magnetometers and hand-held metal detectors are used at all public, ticketed events at the Saenger Theatre. During private events, like the recital last night, the use of these devices is determined on a case-by-case basis.
All events at the Saenger Theater and Mobile Convention Center will require additional security screening moving forward as we continue to work with OVG to review our policies and procedures. We are exploring every option, including investing in additional security measures and tools, to ensure that both public and private events hosted at city facilities are safe and secure.”
The Saenger Theatre released the following statement:
Our hearts are heavy in the wake of the tragic incident that occurred Sunday evening during the Danze 101 Recital. We are heartbroken for the families, friends, and all of those impacted by this senseless act of violence.
We are working closely with the City of Mobile and are incredibly grateful to our local law enforcement and emergency responders for their swift and courageous actions. Moving forward, all events at the Saenger Theatre and the Mobile Convention Center will include additional security screenings as we review our safety procedures with city leaders, partners, and clients.
The Saenger Theatre has long been a place where our community comes together to celebrate creativity, talent, and shared experiences. Together, we look forward to continue to foster a space that uplifts, inspires, and protects all who enter our doors.
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