A Dadeville High School football player was tragically one of four fatalities in a shooting incident at an Alabama birthday celebration, as reported by the Montgomery Advertiser.
Alabama high school football star, Philstavious Dowdell or “Phil,” was not only a talented football player but also participated in track and field and basketball. He had recently committed to Jacksonville State to continue his football career. Sadly, just weeks before his graduation, Phil was among those killed during a sweet 16 party held at a local dance studio.
In a tragic incident, four individuals lost their lives while 28 others sustained injuries, as reported by the Advertiser. Although Sgt. Jeremy Burkett from the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency did not disclose the suspect’s identity, he reassured the public that the suspect is no longer a threat to the community.
According to Al.com, a crowd of approximately 250 people gathered outside the hospital treating the victims, anxiously awaiting updates on their loved ones.
Following the event, President Joe Biden’s office issued a statement addressing the situation, which read in part:
“This morning, our nation is once again grieving for at least four Americans tragically killed at a teen’s birthday party in Dadeville, Alabama as well as two others killed last night in a crowded public park in Louisville. Jill and I are praying for their families and for the many others injured and fighting for their lives in the wake of this weekend’s gun violence.”
Annette Allen, Philstavious Dowdell’s grandmother, shared her thoughts about her grandson in a conversation with the Montgomery Advertiser.
“He was a very, very humble child. Never messed with anybody. Always had a smile on his face,” she said.
Philstavious Dowdell, known as Phil, was a skilled athlete who contributed significantly to his high school teams. As a wide receiver and special teams return man, he played a crucial role in the Tigers’ impressive 10-1 senior season.
In response to the tragic event, Dadeville High School plans to provide counseling services on Monday, as mentioned in the Advertiser report. The school encourages local clergy to Alabama high school football star.