Montgomery Records 56th Homicide of 2025 After Fatal Shooting on Courtland Drive

Montgomery, Ala. - November 18, 2025

Montgomery police are investigating the city's 56th homicide of the year following a fatal shooting Monday night on Courtland Drive. Authorities responded to reports of gunfire shortly after 9 p.m. on November 17 and found a male victim suffering from multiple gunshot wounds. He was pronounced dead at the scene.

The victim has been identified as 25-year-old Zekhiry Hooks of Montgomery

has not yet been released pending notification of next of kin. Police have not announced any arrests, and the motive behind the shooting remains under investigation.

The incident occurred in a residential area off the Eastern Boulevard, where neighbors reported hearing several shots before seeing emergency vehicles flood the street. "It was just chaos," said one resident, who asked not to be named. "We've had violence here before, but this felt different. It was close."

Montgomery Police Department officials confirmed that this marks the city's 56th homicide in 2025, continuing a troubling trend of gun violence that has gripped the capital city in recent years. While overall crime rates have fluctuated, fatal shootings remain a persistent concern for law enforcement and community leaders.

Mayor Steven Reed has previously emphasized the need for community engagement and targeted intervention programs to address the root causes of violence. "We cannot police our way out of this," Reed said in a recent statement. "We need partnerships, prevention, and accountability."

CrimeStoppers is offering a reward for information leading to an arrest in the case. Authorities are urging anyone with information to contact CrimeStoppers at 334-215-STOP or Montgomery Police Department at 334-625-2831.

As the investigation continues, residents of Courtland Drive and surrounding neighborhoods are left grappling with the aftermath of another life lost-and the urgent need for solutions.