Tuscaloosa, October 7, 2025
News Summary
Over the weekend, Tuscaloosa experienced a surge in violent crimes, including multiple shootings that resulted in one fatality. Investigations are underway by local police following incidents that took place in different locations, prompting community concern over rising violence. Suspects have been apprehended, and law enforcement is urging anyone with information to come forward.
Tuscaloosa Experiences Violent Crimes Surge Over the Weekend
Tuscaloosa faced a surge in violent crimes over the weekend, culminating in multiple shootings that left one man dead and several others injured. The incidents occurred in various locations, prompting investigations from both the Tuscaloosa Police and University of Alabama Police.
On Monday at approximately 1 p.m., police responded to a deadly shooting at the Arboretum, a university-owned area located at 4801 Arboretum Way. Officers discovered a male victim with life-threatening injuries, who was promptly transported to the hospital. The victim, identified as 39-year-old Dwight Contrell Tanker, ultimately succumbed to his injuries over the weekend. The Violent Crimes Unit took charge of the investigation, determining that the victim was shot by a 41-year-old woman, Jone Vshal Bates, during a domestic argument. Bates fled the scene, but was later located and initially charged with attempted murder. She has since been rebooked and now faces a murder charge, currently being held without bond. Notably, neither the victim nor Bates was affiliated with the University of Alabama.
In a separate incident on Saturday night, another shooting resulted in a fatality. This shooting occurred at a storage unit facility in the 3400 block of Greensboro Avenue around 10:50 p.m. Officers found 27-year-old Keeondray Sterling deceased at the scene. The shooter, identified as 37-year-old Cordell Shepherd, contacted police to report the shooting, claiming it happened during an argument over a woman. Shepherd was subsequently booked into the Tuscaloosa County Jail on a murder charge and is also being held without bond.
Earlier that Saturday evening, around 8 p.m., police received reports of gunfire at the Cottondale Efficiency Apartment – Kyle Court. Multiple vehicles and residences were struck, leading to injuries among several individuals, though those injured sustained only minor injuries, primarily from broken glass or shrapnel. This incident remains under active investigation, with multiple charges pending against the involved parties.
Additionally, early Sunday morning, around 12:06 a.m., police found another individual with non-life-threatening injuries from a shooting in the 800 block of 33rd Avenue. This incident is also being investigated by the Violent Crimes Unit.
Background Context
This recent surge in violence highlights a troubling trend in Tuscaloosa, where increased tensions and confrontations are becoming alarmingly frequent. Law enforcement agencies are actively working to address these incidents, investigating the underlying causes, and ensuring community safety. The investigation into these shootings is ongoing, and authorities urge anyone with information to come forward.
Frequently Asked Questions
What incidents contributed to the recent violent crime surge in Tuscaloosa?
The surge included multiple shootings, one resulting in a fatality at the Arboretum and another at a storage unit facility, along with other incidents causing injuries.
Who were the victims and suspects involved in these shootings?
The main victim at the Arboretum was Dwight Contrell Tanker, and the suspect is Jone Vshal Bates. Another victim at the storage unit was Keeondray Sterling, with Cordell Shepherd as the suspect.
Are the victims or suspects affiliated with the University of Alabama?
Neither the victim Dwight Contrell Tanker nor the suspect Jone Vshal Bates were affiliated with the University of Alabama.
What actions have law enforcement taken in response to these incidents?
Law enforcement, including the Tuscaloosa Police and University of Alabama Police, are investigating the incidents, with the Violent Crimes Unit taking the lead in some cases.
Chart of Key Features
| Incident | Date | Location | Outcome | Suspect | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Shooting at Arboretum | Monday | 4801 Arboretum Way | 1 fatal, multiple injuries | Jone Vshal Bates | Charged with murder |
| Shooting at Storage Facility | Saturday | 3400 block of Greensboro Avenue | 1 fatality | Cordell Shepherd | Charged with murder |
| Shooting at Cottondale Efficiency Apartment | Saturday | Kyle Court | Multiple minor injuries | Under investigation | Pending charges |
| Shooting on 33rd Avenue | Sunday | 800 block of 33rd Avenue | Non-life-threatening injuries | Under investigation | Active investigation |
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Additional Resources
- AL.com: Man Fatally Shot During Argument
- Wikipedia: Tuscaloosa
- WBRC: Man Charged with Murder
- Google Search: Tuscaloosa violent crime 2025
- WVTM13: Tuscaloosa Weekend Shootings
- Google Scholar: Tuscaloosa violent crime
- ABC3340: Tuscaloosa Sees Surge in Violent Incidents
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Tuscaloosa
- WVUA23: Deadly Weekend of Gun Violence in Tuscaloosa
- Google News: Tuscaloosa shootings October 2025
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