Bessemer, Alabama – Lawyers representing three suspects involved in the 2020 shooting at the Riverchase Galleria in Hoover are gearing up for their upcoming trials. The incident, which occurred in July 2020, resulted in the tragic death of 8-year-old Royta Giles, Jr., along with injuries to two adults and another child. The accused individuals, Montez Coleman, King Williams, and Demetrius Jackson, Jr., have been charged with capital murder of a person under the age of 14 and three counts of second-degree assault.
The defense for all three suspects has maintained that the shooting was an act of self-defense. Coleman’s trial is slated to begin on June 10, followed by Williams’ trial on July 29 and Jackson’s trial on September 29. Giles, a student at Jonesboro Elementary School in Bessemer, was at the mall with his family when the tragic incident unfolded, leaving him fatally wounded while waiting outside a store with COVID restrictions.
After the shooting, Hoover Police officer Schylur Parrish shared his harrowing experience of arriving at the scene and finding the injured child. Parrish described his efforts to administer first aid to the boy before medical help arrived. Following investigations, the authorities speculated that the shooting was a result of a preceding altercation.
It is essential to remember that all individuals are presumed innocent unless proven guilty in a court of law. In response to the tragic event, Giles’ mother has initiated a wrongful death lawsuit against multiple parties, including the former general manager of Riverchase Galleria, a security company, and the property’s owner/operator. Subsequent to the incident, the mall has implemented enhanced security measures, such as the addition of a K9 unit through Allied Universal Security Services.
Additionally, the Riverchase Galleria enforces a Code of Conduct to maintain a safe and family-friendly environment for visitors. The rules outline prohibited activities that may jeopardize the well-being of patrons and property. Any individual found in violation of these regulations may face expulsion from the premises or potential arrest. The tragic events at the Riverchase Galleria serve as a sobering reminder of the importance of community safety and vigilance in public spaces.