Carl Williams III, 27, Fatally Shot at Mobile’s Saenger Theatre During Dance Recital — Marcus Dangelo Sanders, Also 27, Arrested and Charged with Murder and Assault After Gunfire Injures Second Victim
Mobile, Alabama — A horrifying act of violence shattered what should have been a joyful evening at the historic Saenger Theatre in downtown Mobile. On the night of June 1, 2025, during a local children’s dance recital, gunfire erupted inside the venue, leaving 27-year-old Carl Williams III dead and another individual wounded. The suspect, identified as 27-year-old Marcus Dangelo Sanders, was swiftly taken into custody by Mobile Police and now faces charges of murder and first-degree assault.
What was meant to be a celebration of youth, community, and art quickly descended into chaos and heartbreak. Hundreds of families and children fled the scene in fear as the shots rang out, and many are still grappling with the trauma left behind.
A Night Meant for Celebration Turns Deadly
At approximately 6:49 p.m., as family members gathered inside the Saenger Theatre for a dance recital featuring local youth performers, an altercation broke out near the lobby area between two men. Witnesses say the argument quickly escalated into gunfire. Multiple shots were fired, prompting widespread panic inside the theater as parents screamed and children ducked for cover.
Mobile Police responded within minutes, securing the location and assisting with crowd evacuation. Upon arrival, officers found Carl Williams III suffering from multiple gunshot wounds. Despite efforts from emergency medical personnel, he was pronounced dead at the scene. A second male victim was located with non-life-threatening injuries and was transported to a local hospital for treatment.
Authorities were able to apprehend Marcus Dangelo Sanders shortly after the shooting. A handgun believed to have been used in the incident was recovered.
Remembering Carl Williams III
Friends and family describe Carl Williams III as a kind, intelligent, and well-loved individual who had a bright future ahead. A native of Mobile, Carl was deeply rooted in the community and known for his supportive nature and dedication to friends and family. At just 27, he had already begun building a promising career and had plans for further education and personal growth.
“He didn’t deserve this,” said his cousin, Jasmine Holloway. “He was just there to enjoy the recital and support a friend. Now he’s gone, just like that.”
Carl was described as soft-spoken but passionate, often attending local community events, youth programs, and family gatherings. His death has left an irreparable hole in the lives of those closest to him — his parents, siblings, extended family, and numerous friends and neighbors.
“He was the kind of guy who lit up a room just by walking in,” said childhood friend Malik Tucker. “He didn’t have enemies. He had ambition and love.”
Details of the Shooting: Police and Witness Accounts
According to Mobile Police Chief Paul Prine, the shooting was not a random act of violence but stemmed from a personal dispute between the suspect and the victim. Investigators believe the two men were acquainted and that their confrontation during the event spiraled into a deadly encounter.
“We believe this was a targeted incident between individuals who knew each other,” Prine stated during a press briefing. “We want to emphasize that this was not a mass shooting or an attack on the event itself, but it nonetheless caused a tragic loss and deep trauma for everyone present.”
Eyewitnesses described the moments after the gunfire erupted as chaotic and horrifying. Dozens of children performing on stage were quickly ushered to safety by parents and event organizers. Audience members ran for exits while others dropped to the floor. Multiple parents reported shielding their children with their own bodies as they waited for police to arrive.
“It was like a nightmare,” said one parent who declined to be named. “We came to watch our babies dance, not to see someone die.”
Arrest and Charges Against Marcus Dangelo Sanders
Marcus Dangelo Sanders, also 27, was arrested at the scene without further incident. He is being held at the Mobile County Metro Jail on charges of first-degree murder and first-degree assault. Police have not publicly released a motive beyond confirming that the dispute was “personal in nature.”
Sanders is expected to appear before a judge for a preliminary hearing in the coming days. If convicted of the murder charge, he faces a potential life sentence or the death penalty under Alabama law.
Mobile District Attorney Carol Weaver released a statement condemning the violence and vowing justice.
“We cannot and will not tolerate senseless acts of gun violence in our community — especially in places where families gather to celebrate their children. Our office is committed to pursuing this case with the full weight of the law.”
Impact on the Community and Saenger Theatre
The Saenger Theatre, a cherished Mobile landmark known for hosting live performances, school events, and cultural showcases, has never experienced an incident of this magnitude. The theater will remain closed for the foreseeable future as authorities complete their investigation and the community works to process the emotional fallout.
The Mobile Parks and Recreation Department, which helped sponsor the recital, has offered grief counseling resources and partnered with local mental health providers to support affected families.
Mobile Mayor Sandy Stimpson addressed the tragedy in a heartfelt statement Sunday morning:
“We are devastated by the loss of a young man’s life and the trauma inflicted on our children and families. What happened at the Saenger was senseless and heartbreaking. We stand united in grief and in our commitment to ensuring that Mobile remains a safe place for all.”
An Urgent Call for Solutions to Gun Violence
The incident has reignited conversations around public safety, gun control, and the responsibilities of community leaders to address the growing issue of interpersonal violence.
Faith leaders, local activists, and elected officials have called for immediate action, including expanding youth conflict resolution programs, implementing stricter security measures at public events, and increasing law enforcement presence in high-traffic public venues.
At a vigil held Monday evening on the steps of the Saenger Theatre, community members held candles and shared memories of Carl Williams III. A moment of silence was observed, followed by prayers led by Pastor Leon Hardin of New Vision Baptist Church.
“We must do better,” Pastor Hardin said. “We owe it to Carl, to our children, and to the future of this city.”
Moving Forward: Funeral Arrangements and Memorial Support
Carl Williams III’s family has begun making funeral arrangements, which will be handled by Unity Memorial Chapel. A public visitation is planned for later this week, with a celebration of life service scheduled for Saturday. His family has invited members of the community to attend and share stories, memories, and support.
A GoFundMe campaign has also been launched to assist with funeral expenses and to establish a memorial scholarship fund in Carl’s name, aimed at supporting Mobile youth interested in the arts and education — two passions he held close.
The unnamed second victim, who survived the shooting, remains hospitalized in stable condition. Out of respect for privacy, that individual’s identity has not been released.
Final Thoughts
The killing of Carl Williams III at a children’s dance recital is a painful reminder that no place, no matter how innocent, is immune to violence. What should have been an evening filled with music, laughter, and family joy ended in tragedy and grief.
Carl’s life, filled with promise and compassion, was cut short in an instant — a fact that will forever alter the hearts of those who knew him and the city of Mobile as a whole.
As the investigation continues, one truth remains: Mobile mourns a son, a friend, a neighbor, and a future stolen too soon.
In Memory of Carl Williams III (1997–2025)
A life taken in violence, a legacy remembered in love.
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