Decatur, Ala. – A somber atmosphere hangs over the city of Decatur following the tragic death of Dontay Jamar Garner, who lost his life outside the 5th Avenue Food Mart on the evening of October 30. First responders were already working desperately to save him when police arrived around 6:30 p.m., but the injury he suffered proved too severe. Morgan County Coroner Jeff Chunn later pronounced him dead at the scene.
The heartbreaking event unfolded quickly and left bystanders stunned. What makes the case particularly unusual, investigators say, is that the man accused of firing the fatal shot did not flee. Instead, Xavier Rashawn Sutherlin, 21, remained at the scene and surrendered peacefully when Decatur police arrived. He was taken into custody without resistance and now faces a murder charge in connection with the deadly shooting.
Authorities have released limited details about what led up to the tragic encounter. Detectives with the Decatur Police Department’s Violent Crimes Unit are leading the investigation, reviewing surveillance footage from nearby businesses and interviewing potential witnesses. For now, investigators have confirmed that no additional suspects are being sought, but many questions remain about what sparked the deadly exchange.
Police have not said whether the two men knew each other or if the shooting stemmed from a confrontation or misunderstanding. Detectives are carefully examining evidence to determine if it was an argument that spiraled out of control or an isolated incident that unfolded without warning. As the community awaits answers, the department continues to encourage anyone who witnessed the events or has information to come forward.
For those who knew Dontay Garner, the loss has been deeply painful. Friends and family describe the 23-year-old as a loyal, caring, and dependable person whose kindness made a lasting impression on everyone around him. His loved ones remember him as someone who brought laughter and warmth wherever he went — the kind of presence that made others feel seen and valued.
Garner’s death has left a void that words cannot fill. Community members have gathered near the 5th Avenue Food Mart to leave candles, flowers, and handwritten notes in his memory. Many have expressed sorrow that another young life has been cut short, joining the growing list of gun violence victims across Alabama and the nation.
The tragedy has once again reignited conversations about safety and conflict resolution in Decatur. Residents and local leaders have voiced concern about the increasing toll of gun-related deaths, urging young people to seek peaceful ways to handle disputes and asking the public to support violence-prevention programs.
Police officials have emphasized their commitment to a thorough and transparent investigation. They say that every detail — from witness accounts to digital evidence — will be examined to bring clarity to the case and justice for Garner’s family. Until then, they continue to ask for patience as detectives sort through the facts.
The Decatur Police Department and Crime Stoppers are urging anyone with information about the shooting to reach out anonymously if necessary. Investigators believe even small details could help piece together the events leading up to that tragic moment on 5th Avenue.
As the investigation moves forward, those closest to Dontay Garner are left with memories of his smile, his kindness, and his love for life. His family is holding on to faith, hoping that truth and justice will eventually provide the closure they need to begin healing from a loss that has shaken an entire community.
