Selma leaders call for action after two fatal shootings

Selma Mayor Johnny Moss III and Police Chief Kenta Fulford addressed the city on November 13 after two fatal shootings on November 9 left the community shaken. Officers found a 63 year old man, identified as William Holley of Selma, after responding to reports of a gunshot victim. Almost three hours later at 9 40 p.m. a second shooting occurred in the area of Eugene Avenue and F D Reese Street when a vehicle en route to a hospital was discovered carrying a 34 year old woman, identified as Jakeisha Moore of Selma.

The mayor called for unity, accountability and renewed partnerships to restore safety in Selma neighborhoods. He acknowledged the toll violence has taken on families across the city and said he had begun conversations with Chief Fulford about strengthening trust in city leaders and improving visibility while balancing support for officers with accountability.

Chief Fulford outlined several operational and community focused steps the department will take. The department plans to strengthen partnerships with community organizations, faith leaders and youth programs to identify at risk youth. The department will host community safety forums and increase targeted patrols in areas most affected by gun violence. Officials said they will expand the illegal firearms task force and work closely with the Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and other agencies to strengthen investigations and prosecution. The department also plans to improve officer training and accountability and to provide education in schools about the consequences of firearm misuse. Chief Fulford said the department would continue to analyze where violence is occurring to ensure patrols are increased where needed.

These measures could affect resource allocations and policing priorities in the weeks and months ahead. Increased targeted patrols and an expanded task force will require personnel and coordination with county and federal partners. Community safety forums and school based education programs will shift some focus toward prevention and early intervention for youth at risk of involvement in violence. Prosecution enhancements through stronger investigative coordination may also change how cases move from arrest to courtroom.

For residents the immediate impact is both practical and symbolic. Families directly affected by the November 9 shootings face loss and grief, while neighbors may notice increased law enforcement activity in certain neighborhoods. City leaders urged residents to remain engaged and hopeful as officials pursue both enforcement and community based strategies. How effectively those strategies build trust and reduce violence will determine whether Selma can achieve the stable and safe neighborhoods that officials say the city needs.