Police: One Killed in Shooting at Mobile Saenger Theater During Children’s Dance Recital; Suspect in Custody

Police: One Killed in Shooting at Mobile Saenger Theater During Children’s Dance Recital; Suspect in Custody

MOBILE, Ala— A night meant to celebrate children and their achievements was shattered by gunfire Sunday evening at the Saenger Theater in downtown Mobile. A 27-year-old man, Carl Williams III, was fatally shot during a children’s dance recital, sending families and young performers into chaos and fear.

According to the Mobile Police Department, the shooting occurred after an argument broke out between two men inside the theater. Police say Marcus Sanders, 27, pulled a gun during the altercation and opened fire, striking Williams, who later succumbed to his injuries. A second individual was also injured, sustaining a gunshot wound to the ankle.

The violence unfolded in front of a packed audience filled with children, parents, and loved ones gathered to support young dancers.

“First, I thought it was part of the act,” said Sandra, a witness. “The two boys were pushing. Then this guy just pulled the gun from his belt and started shooting. I thought he had shot the boy the first time because he was on the ground, but he kept shooting.”

Another witness, Reginald, described the terrifying moments:

“All I heard was arguing and then gunshots. I saw the fire from the gun. We just hit the ground under the benches.”

Children, Families Traumatized

The emotional toll of the incident is being felt deeply by attendees, many of whom were separated from their children during the chaos.

“I’ve been crying because the kids are traumatized. I’m traumatized,” said Reginald, who was separated from his granddaughter. “You come to an event for children—something positive—and then this happens. It’s going to stay with me for a while.”

Williams had reportedly been filming his daughter’s performance just moments before he was shot. Witnesses say families were running for safety as staff worked quickly to usher children offstage and out of harm’s way.

Former NBC 15 anchor Kym Anderson, who was also in attendance, praised the recital staff for their swift action in protecting the children.

“This doesn’t need to be a bad reflection on them,” she said. “It’s not their fault that ignorance—and that’s what it is—came into this dance recital and ruined it for everyone. This was my daughter’s final recital. It was her senior year.”

Suspect in Custody

Police say the suspect, Marcus Sanders, fled the scene on foot immediately following the shooting. Hours later, he turned himself in to authorities. He is now facing charges of murder and first-degree assault.

Mobile Police Chief William Jackson confirmed the incident appeared to stem from a domestic dispute and that Sanders and Williams were acquainted.

“This was not a random act of violence,” said Chief Jackson. “This was a tragic escalation of a personal dispute that took place in the worst possible setting—among children and families.”

Community Reacts With Outrage and Sorrow

As the community grapples with the shock, many are expressing frustration over the presence of a firearm at an event designed to be a celebration of youth and creativity.

“A bullet has no name,” said Regina, another witness. “At that moment, you’re not thinking about the children. It’s senseless. Really senseless.”

The Saenger Theater, a landmark venue in Mobile, has since reopened, but the incident has left an indelible mark on those in attendance.

Counselors and trauma support services are being made available for children and families affected by the shooting. Meanwhile, investigators continue to gather evidence and encourage any witnesses to come forward.