Huntsville Shooting at Twin Peaks Leaves One Dead, Three Injured; ALEA Leads Investigation

HUNTSVILLE, AL — A tragic shooting at the Twin Peaks restaurant in Huntsville’s MidCity District on Saturday night has left one man dead and three others injured. The incident, which occurred at approximately 9:50 p.m., involved an off-duty officer from the Huntsville Police Department (HPD) who discharged their weapon during an altercation.

According to Huntsville Police Chief Kirk Giles, the events unfolded when a fight erupted between two groups at the restaurant on University Drive. The altercation quickly escalated, drawing in the off-duty officer who intervened and ultimately fired shots during the confrontation. Madison County Coroner Tyler Berryhill confirmed on Sunday morning that Rayshun Bates, a 23-year-old Huntsville resident, was struck by gunfire and tragically succumbed to his injuries at the scene. An autopsy is scheduled later in the week to provide further details.

In addition to Bates, three other individuals sustained injuries and were transported to Huntsville Hospital Trauma Services. While HPD has not provided detailed updates on their conditions, HEMSI (Huntsville Emergency Medical Services, Inc.) spokesperson Don Webster reported that one victim remains in critical condition while the others continue to receive medical care.

The Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA) has taken over the investigation, working to piece together the sequence of events that led to this tragic outcome. ALEA officers are gathering witness statements, reviewing surveillance footage, and collecting other evidence to provide a clearer understanding of the incident. In cases involving police-involved shootings, ALEA typically oversees the investigation to ensure a thorough and impartial examination of all aspects of the case.

The off-duty officer’s role in the incident remains under scrutiny as ALEA continues its investigation. Chief Giles did not specify whether the officer acted in self-defense or to prevent further violence, and additional details will likely be revealed as the investigation progresses.

The shooting has left the Huntsville community shaken, particularly those who witnessed the incident at the bustling restaurant. As patrons and employees cope with the trauma of the event, local leaders are emphasizing the importance of patience as the investigation unfolds.

Updates are expected from ALEA in the coming days, as the agency seeks to provide clarity and accountability in this tragic case.