Brundidge police announced Wednesday that a second suspect has been arrested in connection with the July 4 shooting that occurred at the Grown Folks Cafe and Lounge on East Troy Street. The incident took place shortly after 1:00 a.m. on Independence Day, prompting a rapid response from local law‑enforcement officers.
When officers arrived on the scene, they found three people with injuries that were treated as non‑life‑threatening. The victims were taken to a nearby medical facility for evaluation and released after receiving care.
The newly arrested individual is 42‑year‑old Ladaris Jackson of Troy. Jackson is being charged with illegal possession of a pistol, a charge that carries a $2,500 bond. He was booked early Wednesday morning and will appear before a judge in the coming days.
This arrest follows an earlier apprehension earlier this month of 35‑year‑old Laquan Bryant, also of Troy. Bryant faces two counts of second‑degree assault related to the same shooting. Both arrests underscore the ongoing investigation by Brundidge police to determine the full circumstances surrounding the night’s events.
Police Chief Ulane Jemison emphasized the department’s commitment to public safety and urged anyone with additional information to contact the Brundidge Police Department at 334‑735‑3333. “We are asking the community to come forward with any details that might help us fully understand what happened on July 4th,” Chief Jemison said.
Community response
Local residents expressed concern over the shooting, noting that the Grown Folks Cafe is a popular gathering spot in downtown Brundidge. While the investigation continues, community leaders have called for calm and cooperation with law‑enforcement efforts.
The incident adds to a series of recent public‑safety challenges in Covington County, prompting discussions among city officials about potential measures to improve nighttime security in the area.
Next steps
Both Jackson and Bryant remain in custody pending further court proceedings. The Brundidge Police Department will continue to release updates as the case develops. Residents with tips are reminded that they can remain anonymous when calling the tip line.
Original reporting: Alabama News Network — read the source article.