MONTGOMERY, Ala. — A quiet Sunday evening on Montgomery’s east side was shattered by gunfire, plunging a normally peaceful neighborhood into mourning. Montgomery police have confirmed they are investigating a deadly shooting that claimed the life of a woman, now identified as 41-year-old Kalynthia Mitchell.
According to authorities, officers were dispatched to the 100 block of Eastdale Road South shortly before 7 p.m. on Sunday following reports of shots fired in the area. Upon arrival, they found Mitchell suffering from a life-threatening gunshot wound. Emergency medical personnel rendered aid at the scene before rushing her to a nearby hospital, where she was later pronounced dead.
The Montgomery Police Department (MPD) has since launched a full investigation into the circumstances surrounding the shooting. As of Monday morning, no arrests have been made, and investigators have not publicly identified any suspects or discussed possible motives. Authorities are urging anyone with information to come forward, emphasizing that tips — even anonymous ones — could be critical in solving the case.
“This was a senseless act of violence that took the life of a beloved member of our community,” said Montgomery Police Chief Darryl J. Albert in a statement released late Sunday. “Our detectives are working tirelessly to piece together what happened and bring justice to Kalynthia’s family.”
Family members and friends described Mitchell as a vibrant, caring woman who was deeply loved by those who knew her. According to neighbors, she had lived in the area for several years and was known for her kindness and willingness to lend a helping hand.
“She didn’t deserve this,” said neighbor Tonya Wright, who fought back tears while speaking about the tragedy. “Kalynthia was the type of person who would check on you if she hadn’t seen you in a while. She was more than a neighbor — she was a friend.”
The east side of Montgomery, while not immune to crime, is generally considered a quieter part of the city, making the incident all the more shocking for residents. Many expressed feelings of unease following the shooting, noting that the violence seemed out of place for their close-knit community.
City officials responded swiftly to the news, with Montgomery Mayor Steven L. Reed expressing condolences to the Mitchell family and condemning the violence. “The loss of life due to gun violence is a tragedy that reverberates throughout our entire city,” Reed said in a statement. “We remain committed to working alongside law enforcement and community leaders to ensure Montgomery is a safer place for all.”
This latest shooting underscores a troubling trend of rising violence that cities across the country, including Montgomery, have been grappling with in recent years. Local advocacy groups have reiterated calls for stronger community engagement, better access to conflict resolution programs, and initiatives aimed at curbing gun violence.
Meanwhile, Montgomery police continue to canvass the area, review surveillance footage, and interview witnesses in the hopes of gaining more information. They have asked anyone who may have seen or heard anything unusual Sunday evening to contact MPD at 334-625-2831 or CrimeStoppers at 334-215-STOP.
As the investigation unfolds, Kalynthia Mitchell’s loved ones are left searching for answers — and grappling with the sudden and devastating void left by her death.
“She was full of life, and now she’s gone,” said her cousin, Angela Mitchell. “We just want justice for Kalynthia. We want whoever did this to be held accountable.”
A vigil is being planned later this week to honor Mitchell’s life and legacy, with community members expected to gather to mourn, reflect, and call for peace.
