In a series of violent incidents that have left the Montgomery community shaken, three individuals, including a 15-year-old boy, were killed in separate but related shootings between Thursday, July 10, and Saturday, July 12, 2025. The victims of these tragic incidents have been identified as Brantley McNabb, 15, Malik Benson, 27, and Dekeith Whatley, 26. The Montgomery Police Department has launched an ongoing investigation, urging the public to come forward with any information that could aid in solving these cases.
While the circumstances surrounding the shootings remain under investigation, the Montgomery Police Department has confirmed that the shootings that took place on Saturday afternoon are believed to be connected. Police are also working to determine if there is any link between the July 10 homicide of Brantley McNabb and the later shootings of Malik Benson and Dekeith Whatley.
The First Fatal Shooting: Brantley McNabb, 15, Shot on Air Base Boulevard
The first of the three shootings occurred on the afternoon of Thursday, July 10, at approximately 2:41 p.m., when Montgomery police and fire medics were dispatched to a call reporting a gunshot victim in the 1100 block of Air Base Boulevard. Officers arrived to find Brantley McNabb, a 15-year-old teen, lying on the ground suffering from multiple gunshot wounds.
Emergency responders immediately began performing life-saving measures, but McNabb was pronounced dead shortly after their arrival. He was a student at Montgomery High School and, according to local reports, was described by friends and family as a promising young individual with a bright future ahead of him.
“We are deeply saddened by the loss of such a young life,” said Montgomery Police Chief Leonard Howard in a statement following the tragic event. “Our hearts go out to Brantley’s family, and we are committed to finding the person or people responsible for his death.”
At this stage, Montgomery police have not confirmed the motive behind McNabb’s killing, nor have they shared any details about possible suspects. The teen’s death has left the local community reeling, with many expressing shock and disbelief at the violence that has gripped the city.
Saturday Afternoon Violence: The Shootings of Malik Benson and Dekeith Whatley
The following incidents occurred on the afternoon of Saturday, July 12, in two separate locations: the 400 block of North California Street and the 2700 block of Upper Wetumpka Road. Authorities believe that these shootings were likely related, though the details remain unclear.
The first of the two incidents took place at 3:55 p.m., when police responded to reports of gunfire in the 400 block of North California Street. Upon arrival, officers located Malik Benson, 27, who had suffered multiple gunshot wounds. He was pronounced dead at the scene despite medical efforts by first responders.
Benson, known locally for his connection to several community outreach initiatives, was remembered by family and friends as someone who dedicated his life to helping others. His death has stunned those who knew him, and local leaders have called for justice.
“We lost someone who was always working to make our community a better place,” said Rev. Samuel Jones, a community activist. “Malik didn’t deserve this.”
Less than an hour later, police received a second call regarding a shooting in the 2700 block of Upper Wetumpka Road, which was just a short distance from the scene of the first shooting. Upon arriving at the location, authorities found Dekeith Whatley, 26, suffering from multiple gunshot wounds. Like Benson, Whatley was pronounced dead shortly after emergency responders arrived.
Whatley was described by family as a devoted father and a hardworking man, with many expressing their sorrow over the untimely loss of a man who had been trying to turn his life around.
Possible Connection Between Saturday’s Shootings: Investigators Scramble for Leads
Investigators believe the shootings of Malik Benson and Dekeith Whatley may be linked, and have suggested that gang activity or retaliation could be a potential motive, though this remains unconfirmed. Authorities have worked swiftly to collect evidence and speak to potential witnesses, but they have not yet released details regarding any possible suspects or a clear motive.
“We are investigating all leads,” said Detective Erica Palmer, the lead investigator in the case. “At this point, we can confirm that these two incidents appear to be related, but we are still piecing together the puzzle.”
Residents of the areas where the shootings took place have expressed fear and frustration, urging the police to take stronger actions to prevent further violence. Many have voiced their concerns over increasing gun violence in their neighborhoods, especially over the course of the last year.
“We’re tired of this,” said Tanya Walker, a local resident. “Every week it feels like someone is getting shot. It’s time for something to change before it’s too late.”
The Police Investigation: Arrests and Public Appeal for Information
The Montgomery Police Department has launched a comprehensive investigation into the shootings, with investigators focusing on gathering surveillance footage, interviewing witnesses, and tracking leads. As of Sunday, July 13, no formal arrests have been made, but police have confirmed that they are actively pursuing several persons of interest.
The Montgomery Police Department has urged residents to come forward with any information they may have regarding the shootings, especially from those who might have been in the area at the time of the incidents.
“We need the community’s help,” said Chief Leonard Howard. “If anyone saw something or knows something, please reach out. Your information could be the key to solving this case.”
The department has made several options available for the public to submit tips anonymously, including the Crime Stoppers tip line, the Secret Witness tip line, and through direct communication with Montgomery detectives.
The Community’s Reaction: Grief and Calls for Justice
The deaths of Brantley McNabb, Malik Benson, and Dekeith Whatley have left the Montgomery community heartbroken and grappling with the escalating violence in their neighborhoods. Memorials and vigils have been organized across the city, with community members coming together to honor the lives of the victims and demand justice.
“We cannot sit back and allow our community to be consumed by violence,” said Pastor Linda Green, a local faith leader. “We need unity, we need healing, and we need accountability.”
Local leaders and activists have called for more community policing initiatives, along with greater investment in youth programs and efforts to reduce gun violence.
A Growing Concern: The Impact of Gun Violence in Montgomery
These tragic events come at a time when Montgomery, like many U.S. cities, is experiencing an uptick in violent crimes, including shootings. Authorities are addressing concerns that this surge in violence could spread further if left unchecked.
City officials are working closely with law enforcement agencies to address the root causes of violence in the community, with a particular focus on gang-related activity, drug trafficking, and interpersonal conflicts that escalate into deadly confrontations.
“We can’t just arrest our way out of this,” said Mayor Tommy Battle. “We need long-term solutions to address the challenges in our community, including providing better opportunities for our youth.”
A City Mourns: Remembering the Victims
As Montgomery grapples with these devastating losses, the families of the victims have expressed their grief and sorrow.
“Brantley was just a child. He had his whole life ahead of him,” said Mrs. McNabb, Brantley’s mother. “I can’t believe he’s gone. We need justice.”
The families of Malik Benson and Dekeith Whatley have also spoken out, remembering their loved ones as men who sought better futures for themselves and their families, despite the challenges they faced in their lives.
“Malik was about peace, about helping others. This senseless violence needs to stop,” said Malik’s mother, Teresa Benson. “We want justice for Malik and all the other families affected by violence.”
What’s Next: The Investigation Continues
The Montgomery Police Department continues to investigate the shootings, with additional updates expected in the coming days. While the department has made progress in identifying suspects, the motives behind these tragic deaths remain unclear. Law enforcement is urging the public to remain vigilant and assist in solving these cases.
The city of Montgomery, and the families of Brantley McNabb, Malik Benson, and Dekeith Whatley, will continue to fight for justice and work towards healing in the wake of these devastating events.