One injured in officer-involved shooting at Alabama A&M

HUNTSVILLE — One person was injured Monday in an officer-involved shooting at Alabama A&M University.

According to a statement from the university, the incident occurred Monday afternoon, during a “routine security check in the Knight Center and was contained within minutes.”

AAMU Campus Police Chief Montrez Payton said an officer was performing the check on the fifth floor when the officer heard shots being fired below. The officer went to check on the location where shots were fired when they met someone in the southwest stairwell and multiple shots were exchanged, according to the chief.

Payton confirmed one person was shot and transported to the hospital.

He said the investigation is being managed by the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA). 

“Any questions regarding the investigation should be directed to ALEA,” a statement attributed to Payton said. “No further comments will be provided at this time.”

The university statement said the “climate continues to present safety challenges to colleges and universities, but AAMU is committed to enhancing overall safety  for students, faculty and staff.” 

“Our campus police and University staff are to be commended for their efforts to quickly respond to the threat, ensure student safety and provide updates.”

The university has a campus alert system and recommends employees and parents of students subscribe to receive all campus emergency updates.

Counseling services are available by calling the AAMU Student Affairs Office at 256-372-5233.