TUSCALOOSA, AL (WSFA) -
The University of Alabama released a statement Tuesday evening in response to the early morning shootings at the Copper Top bar located a short distance from campus, saying that thoughts and prayers were with those who are injured.
The University also confirmed that three students suffered non life-threatening injuries, and a fourth victim is employed by the Crimson Tide as a football analyst. That victim is identified as newly hired analyst Kelvin Sigler. His injuries were also non life-threatening.
Dr. Judy Bonner, Interim President of the University issued the following statement to the UA family:
Our thoughts and prayers go out to those who were injured in the shooting in downtown Tuscaloosa last night. We have learned that three students suffered non life-threatening injuries. Two were treated and released from the hospital, and one is being held for observation.
The Emergency Policy Group convened as soon as we were notified by the city of Tuscaloosa and has been in close contact with Tuscaloosa Mayor Walt Maddox and UAPD since the incident occurred. Following the shooting, UAPD took precautionary measures in the areas west of campus and offered assistance to the Tuscaloosa Police Department.
Also, the University notified the campus community through UA Alerts text messages and emails as soon as information about the situation became available to University officials.
For those who need assistance coping with the aftermath of the shooting, counseling is available through the UA Counseling Center <http://counseling.ua.edu/> , 1000 South Lawn Office Building (1101 Jackson Avenue), (205) 348-3863.
The safety and well-being of our students is one of our highest priorities at The University of Alabama. The University will continue to partner with the city of Tuscaloosa, as we work together to provide for the safety of our students, faculty and staff.
While 17 people where injured, only 5 were said to have actually been shot. WBRC Fox 6 confirmed the current conditions off all hospitalized Tuscaloosa victims at approximately 5:30pm.
Five victims remain hospitalized. One is in critical condition and a second is in serious condition. Both are in the Intensive Care Unit. Three others are listed in fair condition. Additional details, including victim identities, are not immediately available.
A suspect, 44-year-old Nathan Van Wilkins, turned himself in to authorities in the neighboring city of Jasper Tuesday morning. He's now charged with 17 counts of attempted murder charges and one count of shooting into an occupied building.
Van Wilkins is also charged in another shooting case with one count of attempted murder and one count of shooting into an occupied dwelling. He's being held on a $2 million bond.
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Covered windows of the Copper Top bar after a man shot into the building.
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