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General

Darius Miles: What does Michael Davis capital murder conviction mean for ex-Alabama player?

Paula Whitley made clear her office’s work wasn’t done.

Tuscaloosa County’s chief assistant district attorney had just won her case this past Friday, convincing a jury to convict Michael “Buzz” Davis of capital murder for the shooting death of Jamea Harris. Answering questions minutes after the conviction on the seventh floor of the Tuscaloosa County courthouse, Whitley expressed satisfaction with the outcome of the case. But she conveyed a message not of finality.

“We believe this is partial justice for Jamea,” Whitley said. “It’s not over.”

Whitley didn’t mention ex-Alabama basketball player Darius Miles by name, but he’s the other man charged in this case. Davis was convicted of shooting into the Jeep that carried Harris near the Strip in Tuscaloosa on Jan. 15, 2023. Davis’ attorney, John Robbins, did not successfully argue self-defense.

Miles, who has not been tried yet, was the owner of the gun. Mary Turner, Miles’ attorney, has previously stated in court that Miles provided the gun to Davis for protection.

Davis will appeal the ruling of capital murder with a sentence of life in prison without the possibility of parole, but the biggest question that looms after the five-day trial is: What does this mean for Miles?

Alabama Forward Darius Miles (2) dribbles the ball against Jackson State at Coleman Coliseum in Tuscaloosa, AL on Tuesday, Dec 20, 2022.

Photo by Rodger ChampionCrimson Tide Photos / UA Athleti

Darius Miles’ status

Miles has been in jail since the day of the shooting more than two years ago. Multiple times, his lawyers have tried to get Miles let out on bond. But two different judges have said no. Bond in capital murder cases is rare in Alabama.

Miles does not yet have a trial date set. That could soon change now that Davis has been found guilty.

Turner did not respond to a request for comment from AL.com after the Davis verdict.

Miles was removed from the Alabama men’s basketball team the day he was arrested.

Jamea Jonae Harris, 23, was shot to death on the Strip in Tuscaloosa. She leaves behind a 5-year-old son, Kaine. (Special to AL.com)

Will prosecution of Miles change after Davis verdict?

Now that the prosecution has a guilty verdict in hand of the shooter, Davis, will that affect how it prosecutes Miles?

“We have not given that thought at this time, since we’re just walking out of the verdict,” Whitley said Friday. “We’ll be continuing to work on his case and all the other cases that we have in the office to bring justice to all of our cases.”

Unless they hatch a plea deal, Miles will go on trial in the same courthouse with the same judge, but, with an all new jury.

Darius Miles and Michael DAvis — Darius Miles (left) is charged with capital murder in a deadly shooting on the Strip in Tuscaloosa on Jan. 15, 2023. Michael Davis (right) has been found guilty of capital murder in that case. (Tuscaloosa County Jail)

Life without parole is the only possibility if Miles is found guilty of capital murder. The prosecution decided to take the death penalty off the table for both Davis and Miles.

Now, if Davis had been found not guilty of capital murder or the lesser manslaughter charge, then that would have had a direct impact on Miles. In that scenario, if the jury found Davis had acted in self-defense, then there might not be much of a case against Miles, who wasn’t the one who pulled the trigger.

But Davis’ trial didn’t go that way.

The Davis trial in some ways can be informative to Miles and his attorneys. Although they might not know exactly how the state will prosecute Miles, they had a full week to watch how the state prosecuted Davis. The trial also provided a week of information as to what didn’t work in trying to prove self-defense from Davis’ attorneys.

The outcome of Davis’ trial can also help inform Miles and his attorneys when weighing any potential plea agreement the prosecution might offer. But only so much. Davis was the shooter while Miles provided the gun. So their circumstances, although somewhat connected, are different and could be perceived much differently by a different jury.

What we learned about Miles’ actions on the night of the shooting

Note: These details are based on testimony from the Davis trial and surveillance video shown in court:

Miles made plans the evening of Jan. 14, 2023 with Davis, Brandon Miller and Jaden Bradley after Alabama beat LSU. Miller and Bradley were Miles’ teammates. Davis, a friend of Miles, was not affiliated with the team.
They met up at the Vie at University Downs apartment complex prior to going out.
Bradley drove Davis to Twelve25 sports bar on the Strip. Miller drove Miles there, too, but the line was long, so Miller instead went to Moe’s BBQ, he testified.
Miles, Bradley and Davis went into Twelve25 together and left once it closed.
Miles, Bradley and Davis left the bar and walked across University Boulevard. A black Jeep Wrangler sat parked at a stop sign with its hazards on. Inside that Jeep: Harris, her boyfriend Cedric Johnson and her cousin Asia Humphrey.
Miles didn’t initially stop at the Jeep, but Davis did. He danced to the front left of it. Then Johnson rolled the driver’s side backseat window down as Davis walked up and had a confrontation with Johnson. Testimony differed as to what exactly was said between the two, but Davis testified he called Johnson out to have a fist fight.
Miles came back to the Jeep and pulled Davis away from the Jeep, Johnson testified. Eventually, the trio walked away from the Jeep.
Miles had a “calming effect” on Davis, Bradley told police, per investigator testimony from 2023.
Miles told police he saw a gun passed back to Johnson while at the Jeep. Johnson and Humphrey confirmed that during Davis’ trial. Johnson testified Harris slid him his gun after Davis told him he “whacks people.” Davis denied saying that during his testimony.
Miles got Davis away from the Jeep because he saw the gun, Miles told police.
Miles, Davis and Bradley walked behind the Houndstooth, back to Bradley’s car.
At 1:38:30 a.m. Miller texted Miles to let him know he was on the way to pick him up from the Strip.
Nine seconds later, Miles texted Miller “I need my joint. A (person) ‘rl jus got da fakin” as shown in court during Davis’ trial. Fakin’, Miller told the jury, meant “somebody was trying to scare somebody.” And joint is referring to Miles’ gun, an investigator testified in a prior hearing.
During the trial last week, an attorney for Davis asked Miller, “when you received that text message, you knew Darius wanted that gun, it’s because someone is threatening him, right?” Miller answered “correct.”
Miles got in the car with Bradley in his two-door Dodge Challenger and drove back to Grace Street. Meanwhile, Davis went “to look for the Jeep,” Bradley testified. “He was worried about the Jeep.”
Miles and Bradley drove to Grace Street “to check on Buzz,” Bradley testified. Buzz is Davis’ nickname.
Miles and Bradley parked on the right side of Grace Street. Miller pulled up behind them in his Dodge Charger and also parked.
Miles walked up to Davis and Skylar Essex, Miles’ girlfriend. Then the three walked back to the two cars.
Miles and Davis then walked to the back right of Miller’s car while Essex waited by Bradley’s car. Dash cam audio from Miller’s car made it possible to hear what Davis and Miles said in the back of the car. Testimony from Davis and a police investigator confirmed who said what.
“The heat is in the hat,” Miles said.
“Is there one in the head?” Davis responded.
“You know it is,” Miles said.
The conversation referred to a handgun and that a bullet was in the chamber, per testimony from an investigator.
A police investigator testified in 2023 he relied on this conversation captured on the dash cam that Miles aided and abetted a capital murder.
After Miles emerged from the back of the Dodge Charger, he walked back to his girlfriend who was standing at the front car. Davis went a different direction. Miles moved Essex and her friend off Grace Steet to an area behind the Houndstooth.
“(Davis) told Darius to take me home,” Essex testified.
Miles walked back toward Miller and Bradley’s cars on Grace Street. Then he walked by both cars, continuing to walk past the Jeep that had ended up right behind Miller’s car. The Jeep did not have its headlights on. Johnson testified that he switched them off about two minutes prior.
Miles glanced into the Jeep when he walked by, Humphrey testified.
Miles also flipped his hood on his jacket up when he walked by the Jeep. In that moment, Davis emerged from behind two buildings. Miles flipped the hood back down right after.
Miles continued walking and disappeared from the view of surveillance cameras. He left the scene and was not on Grace Street when Davis ran up to the driver’s side window and shot into the Jeep.
Miles’ next known action: He and Essex picked up Davis, who was on foot, after the shooting, Davis testified. They went back to Vie at University Downs, the apartment complex where they started the night.
Davis testified he “gave (the gun) back to Darius Miles.” Davis also said he did not know what Miles did with the gun.
Police investigator Branden Culpepper testified that the gun was found at the apartment where the group went before and after the time on the Strip. The gun was in a closet, in a drawer, wrapped in a Gatorade towel.

Nick Kelly is an Alabama beat writer for AL.com and the Alabama Media Group. Follow him on X and Instagram.

General

US and China reach tariff deal: What will it mean for the stock market?

World shares and U.S. futures surged Monday after the U.S. and China announced they were suspending for 90 days most of the sharp tariff hikes each has imposed since U.S. President Donald Trump began escalating his trade war.

A joint statement said that for a 90-day period, the U.S. will cut tariffs on Chinese goods to 30% from as high as 145%. China said its tariffs on U.S. goods will fall to 10% from 125%.

The agreement to allow time for more talks followed weekend negotiations in Geneva, Switzerland, that the U.S. side said had made “ substantial progress.”

The full impact on the complicated tariffs and other trade penalties enacted by Washington and Beijing remains unclear. And much depends on whether they will find ways to bridge longstanding differences during the 90-day suspension.

But as trade envoys from the world’s two biggest economies blinked, finding ways to pull back from potentially massive disruptions to world trade and their own markets, investors rejoiced.

The future for the S&P 500 jumped 2.6% and that for the Dow Jones Industrial Average was up 2%.

Oil prices rallied, with U.S. benchmark crude oil gaining $1.66 to $62.68 per barrel. Brent crude, the international standard, added $1.63 to $65.55 per barrel.

The U.S. dollar surged against the Japanese yen, trading at 148.18 Japanese yen, up from 146.17 yen. The euro fell to $1.1107 from $1.1209.

In other stock trading, Tokyo’s market closed before the joint statement was issued, gaining less than 0.1% to 37,644.26. But Hong Kong’s, which closes later, jumped 3% to 23,558.11.

Germany’s DAX gained 1% to 23,723.55 and the CAC 40 in Paris added 0.8% to 7,805.62. Britain’s FTSE 100 edged 0.1% higher, to 8,560.42.

Investors were also watching for developments in other flashpoints including clashes between India and Pakistan, the war in Ukraine and conflict in the Middle East.

The Sensex in Mumbai shot up 3.2% after India and Pakistan agreed to a truce after talks to defuse their most serious military confrontation in decades. The two armies have exchanged gunfire, artillery strikes, missiles and drones that killed dozens of people.

Pakistan’s KSE 100 surged more than 9% and trading was halted for one hour following a spike driven by the ceasefire and an International Monetary Fund decision Friday to disburse about $1 billion of a bailout package for its battered economy.

The Shanghai Composite Index picked up 0.8% to 3,369.24.

Chinese EV battery maker CATL, or Contemporary Amperex Technology Co., Ltd., said in a prospectus filed with the Hong Kong Stock Exchange that it plans to raise nearly $4 billion in a share listing.

Elsewhere in Asia, the Kospi in Seoul gained 1.2% to 2,607.33.

Australia’s S&P/ASX 200 climbed less than 0.1% to 8,233.50.

Taiwan’s Taiex gained 1%.

On Friday, U.S. stocks drifted, with the S&P 500 edging 0.1% lower. Last week was the first in seven where the index at the heart of many 401(k) accounts moved by less than 1.5%, after careening on fears about President Donald Trump’s trade war and hopes that he’ll relent on some of his tariffs.

The Dow dipped 0.3%, while the Nasdaq composite edged up by less than 0.1%.

Apart from trade talks and other geopolitical factors, the flow of earnings reports for the start of the year from companies is slowing but still moving markets.

General

Country music star reveals health battle: ‘I was in a wheelchair’

Gretchen Wilson, the “Redneck Woman” singer, revealed after winning “The Masked Singer” on Wednesday health issues have kept her from the spotlight.

“So, I got COVID. I was one of the very first to get it, and it was a heck of a round,” Wilson told Fox News Digital.

“It left me with high blood pressure, shortness of breath, asthma — all of which I still have — and it took about two years for me to find the right doctors, cardiologists to get it all sorted, to find the right medicine to get my blood pressure down. I mean, it was pretty severe. It was bad enough that I couldn’t even do light housework without the blood pressure going up to scary levels.”

COVID was not all that kept Wilson from performing.

“I also shattered my leg, and I was in a wheelchair for eight months. So there was a lot that I had to work through.”

Most of her health issues weren’t known as she didn’t post the news on her social media channels.

“I don’t get on my phone and go, ‘Oh, woe is me and look at me and I am so sad, boohoo,’” Wilson said. “It’s just not my personality. So I just stayed away, figured it out. Like I said, it took a long time, but I finally got myself into a place where I was like, ‘Okay, I feel like I’m back.’”

Mark Heim is a reporter for The Alabama Media Group. Follow him on Twitter @Mark_Heim. He can be heard on “The Opening Kickoff” on WNSP-FM 105.5 FM in Mobile or on the free Sound of Mobile App from 6 to 9 a.m. daily.

General

This teen’s nonprofit is bridging the gap between youth and Birmingham’s homeless

In a series of stories, AL.com will continue to explore big ideas for transforming Birmingham – ideas, programs and initiatives aimed at making the city stronger, more prosperous, better educated and safer than it is today.

Camden Pierce said she remembers packing food bags alongside her older brother for people in need during the COVID pandemic, when many were at their most vulnerable to financial hardships.

Pierce is the co-founder of the Recursion Program’s Young Leaders Board, a nonprofit working to eradicate poverty and homelessness through community service and educational development. Pierce said she hopes to lead the next generation to serve their communities and end poverty in Birmingham.

“As a younger kid, it really helped me with developing my empathy and my compassion. Feeling good about doing service and giving at such a young age really just fulfilled me and helped me to find my purpose,” Pierce told AL.com.

Pierce has been tackling poverty throughout Birmingham since she was 10 years old.

Now, at age 15, Pierce is continuing that work by bridging the gap between youth and Birmingham residents in need.

About 100 students from schools around the city, including A.H. Parker, Hoover, Spain Park and Mountain Brook high schools, have participated on the Young Leaders Board since its inception in 2020.

“The youth that work alongside me are always surprised by how great it feels to volunteer, how much impact a few hours can make in the lives of others and how much power we have as young people to bolster and change the trajectory of our communities,” Pierce said.

“There is always an eagerness to do more after my peers have opportunities to serve, which is the whole point. I want young people to determine and develop their own service passions so they will engage in service in their communities for the rest of their lives.”

A life of service: ‘We are all equals’

Pierce said she learned early on that she and her family were no different from the people they served.

During a Thanksgiving food drive, Pierce’s father recognized a man he grew up with among the people they were serving. Pierce said the interaction made her realize just how vulnerable anyone can be to financial hardships.

“I want people to know that it’s not just because of bad choices that drives people into the cycle of poverty. Life just comes at you fast. It can be losing your job, maybe you got sick and your insurance won’t cover it. It really can be anything,” Pierce said.

“I don’t want people to look down on those individuals because we are all equals.”

Poverty is a complex issue that 25.2% of Birmingham residents are currently facing, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

Raphael Pierce, Camden’s father, said he and his wife instilled lessons of faith and service in their children early because of the modest means they came from.

“We wanted our kids to understand the intricate link between glorifying and showing gratitude to God, and helping others less fortunate,” Raphael Pierce said.

“While we grew up in loving, faithful homes, neither Staci or I were raised in families of means. We saw first-hand the hard choices families made on a day-to-day basis to keep moving forward for the sake of future generations.”

Camden’s mother, Staci Pierce, founder of the Recursion Program, said she and her husband have always talked to their children about the persistent stigma people in poverty endure and the importance of service.

“It was amazing to us that when they got to a certain age, they went from tagging along to wanting to lead and have their own stake and push it forward,” Staci Pierce said.

“Bringing the idea of trying to tackle the things that cause poverty, like illiteracy, the prison complex, food insecurity, down to their age, and then teaching their peers, that’s how we move the world forward.”

Pierce and her older brother, Riley, created the Young Leaders Board to bring the work of the Recursion Program to their peers at Altamont, a local 5-12 grade private school.

“We really wanted to get our friends to be involved in service, because it really made us feel really good and fulfilled, like it was our purpose, and we knew that it would also help others,” Pierce said.

Beth Dille, director of the C. Kyser Miree Ethical Leadership Center, a leadership program at Altamont, teaches her students about how to lead ethically by understanding effective communication skills, implicit biases and the importance of service.

Dille said more of her students are eager to participate in community service since Pierce became a student in her class.

Every month, Pierce volunteers alongside her peers at food drives to give out warm meals and hand out care packages to people who are homeless. She also regularly cooks and serves breakfast at First Light, a local homeless shelter for women and children.

“She brings a lot of hope. I’ve worked with her for almost four years now, her motives are very pure, and that gives me hope for the future,” Dille said. “She’s a really good leader without even trying…She’s creating space for connections to be made, not for herself, but for other people.”

Pierce has worked to bring experts in literacy, prisons and poverty to talk to her classmates about the root causes of homelessness.

One of those experts was Ruth Anne Moss, executive director of Small Magic, a nonprofit working to improve literacy across Birmingham. Pierce is a member of the Small Magic advisory board to raise awareness about how illiteracy contributes to poverty.

“I’m really, really grateful for the ways that Camden‘s taking space and sharing her voice and her perspective and making her community the kind of place that she wants to live,” Moss said.

Pierce also conducted a poverty simulation workshop with Alabama Possible, a nonprofit working to break economic barriers, which put the Altamont students in the shoes of people facing financial hardship.

Pierce said it was important for her classmates to learn these lessons and step out of their comfort zones because many of them come from upper-class homes and families.

“Taking those lessons to a community that’s more privileged, like kids that go to private school and live in very rich neighborhoods, I feel like everybody just got a different perspective, and really tapped into the Recursion Program and bought into the idea of service,” Pierce said.

She said the list to sign up to participate in service projects fills up faster every time.

Pierce’s work throughout the community has also received national recognition.

In March, Pierce earned a spot at the Disney Dreamers Academy where she and 99 other teens with big ideas received mentorship, skills training and inspiration from celebrities, scientists, music producers and other renowned leaders who encouraged them to continue being changemakers in their own communities.

“The Disney Dreamers Academy opened my eyes to so many possibilities. It expanded my thoughts around future career horizons, fueled my pursuit of creative passions, encouraged and validated my compassion for others and left me with high optimism for the future of my generation and our ability to have a great impact on it,” Pierce said.

What’s next for the Recursion Program: ‘Change the world’

Pierce said she wants people to know that they do not have to be wealthy to make a difference in their communities.

“People think that you have to have money, or that you have to be important or that you have to have a savior complex. Sometimes it’s just very difficult for younger people to get into it due to not being taken seriously,” Pierce said.

“That’s why I want to educate people about it and get the next generation to step into service roles to show them that you can do it, and you don’t have to donate millions of dollars to actually see an impact.”

Pierce is working to launch a ‘Social Capital Pledge’ where people from all walks of life commit their time – instead of money – to making a difference.

Pierce said she is utilizing the relationships she has developed through the Recursion Program to create a supply and demand service model where she maps the needs of regional charitable organizations – the demand, and the charitable desires of pledgers – the supply.

While the popular ‘Giving Pledge’ targets billionaires to donate their wealth to make positive change, as a teenager with limited means, Pierce said she wanted to make giving back more inclusive.

“I want to attract adults and teenagers from all walks of life to share time, connections, energy and talent with others,” Pierce said.

“Ultimately, I just hope the Social Capital Pledge encourages everyone to take a stand to make this world just a little more generous, joyous and hopeful.”

The Social Capital Pledge will be a public, moral commitment to positively improve communities through volunteerism, donation or mentorship in which pledgers will leverage their expertise and social networks to create opportunities for others, she said. Pierce hopes to launch the Social Capital Pledge in Fall 2025.

“It’s for people who just have time to give and have spirit and passion for service. I think that’ll help make service itself more inclusive,” she said.

Pierce said she wants people of all ages, incomes and backgrounds to work alongside one another to make a change.

Pierce has big dreams for the future of Birmingham.

“I hope to get my peers engaged with helping stop the cycle of poverty,” Pierce said. “My focus is on getting the next generation ready for service.”

She said that by inspiring people her age to step into service roles, she believes her generation can help to end poverty in Birmingham and beyond.

“I really think that Camden is the kind of young woman that’s going to change the world,” Moss said. “And we are lucky to be working in a community led by young people. I think that all of us would do better to listen to young people more often.”

General

Flood warning issued for Chilton and Shelby counties Monday morning triggered by excessive downpours

At 5:51 a.m. on Monday, the National Weather Service released a flood warning in effect until 8:45 a.m. for Chilton and Shelby counties.

The weather service describes, “Small stream flooding caused by excessive rainfall is expected for Chilton and Shelby counties.”

“Small stream flooding may lead to water over roadways and areal flooding near Cahaba Valley Creek at Indian Trail Road in Shelby County and along Walnut Creek above Clanton in Chilton County,” adds the weather service. “Turn around, don’t drown when encountering flooded roads. Most flood deaths occur in vehicles.”

Deciphering advisories, watches, and warnings: Understanding weather alerts

Flash flood warning: Take action!

A flash flood warning is issued when a flash flood is either imminent or already occurring. In flood-prone areas, it’s crucial to move immediately to higher ground. A flash flood is a sudden and violent inundation that can develop within minutes to hours, and it can even happen in areas not currently experiencing rainfall.

Flood warning: Take action!

A flood warning is issued when flooding is imminent or occurring.

Flood advisory: Be aware:

A flood advisory is issued when flooding is not expected to be bad enough to issue a warning. However, it may cause significant inconvenience, and if caution is not exercised, it could lead to situations that may threaten life and/or property.

Flood watch: Be prepared:

A flood watch is issued when conditions are favorable for flooding. It does not mean flooding will occur, but it is possible.

Staying safe during a flood: Recommendations from the weather service

In flood-prone regions or while camping in low-lying areas, understanding and following the weather service flood safety guidelines can be a lifesaver:

Seek higher ground:

If you’re in a flood-prone area, or if you’re camping in a low-lying spot, move to higher ground as a first step.

Adhere to evacuation orders:

If local authorities issue an evacuation order, heed it promptly. Prior to leaving, secure your home by locking it.

Disconnect utilities and appliances:

If time allows, disconnect your utilities and appliances. This reduces the risk of electrical hazards during flooding.

Avoid basements and submerged areas:

Avoid basements or rooms submerged in water with electrical outlets or cords. Preventing electrical accidents is crucial.

Swift evacuation for your safety:

If you notice sparks or hear buzzing, crackling, snapping, or popping sounds, evacuate without delay. Do not enter water that may carry an electrical charge.

Refrain from walking in floodwaters:

Never attempt to walk through floodwaters. Even just 6 inches of swiftly moving water can forcefully knock you off your feet.

Seek high ground if trapped:

Should you become trapped by moving water, reach the highest point possible and dial 911 to contact emergency services.

When heavy rain occurs, there is a risk of flooding, particularly in low-lying and flood-prone regions. It is important to never attempt to drive through water on the road, regardless of how deep it appears. According to the weather service, as little as 12 inches of rushing water can sweep away most vehicles. Prioritize your safety by staying informed and prepared.

Navigating heavy rain: Essential safety measures for wet roads

Rain can turn roads into hazards. Stay informed and follow these tips from the weather service to ensure safety during heavy rainfall:

Beware of swollen waterways:

In heavy rain, refrain from parking or walking near culverts or drainage ditches, where swift-moving water can pose a grave danger.

Maintain safe driving distances:

The two-second rule for following distance is your ally in heavy rain. Extend it to four seconds to ensure safe spacing in adverse conditions.

Reduce speed and drive cautiously:

On wet roads, slowing down is paramount. Gradually ease off the accelerator and avoid abrupt braking to prevent skidding.

Choose your lane wisely:

Stick to the middle lanes on multi-lane roads to minimize the risk of hydroplaning, as water tends to accumulate in outer lanes.

Visibility matters:

Enhance your visibility in heavy rain by turning on your headlights. Watch out for vehicles in blind spots, as rain-smeared windows can obscure them.

Watch out for slippery roads:

The first half-hour of rain is when roads are slickest due to a mix of rain, grime, and oil. Exercise heightened caution during this period.

Keep a safe distance from large vehicles:

Large trucks and buses can reduce your visibility with tire spray. Avoid tailgating and pass them swiftly and safely.

Mind your windshield wipers:

Heavy rain can overload the wiper blades. When visibility is so limited that the edges of the road or other vehicles cannot be seen at a safe distance, it is time to pull over and wait for the rain to ease up. It is best to stop at rest areas or other protected areas.
If the roadside is your only option, pull off as far as possible, preferably past the end of a guard rail, and wait until the storm passes. Keep your headlights on and turn on emergency flashers to alert other drivers of your position.

By following these safety measures, you can significantly reduce risks and ensure your well-being when heavy rain pours down. Stay informed about weather conditions and heed advice from local authorities to make your journey safe and sound.

Advance Local Weather Alerts is a service provided by United Robots, which uses machine learning to compile the latest data from the National Weather Service.

General

Swatting, defending Fetterman, Talladega College’s gift: Down in Alabama

Double-swatted

It’s old news that U.S. Sen. Tommy Tuberville’s Auburn home was swatted on Christmas Day 2023.

“Swatting” is making fake calls to authorities to try to get a response from law enforcement. Think false reports of active shooters and SWAT teams surrounding the house of a public official. The troubles that can cause are obvious: It costs public resources, it can put first-responders and others in a dangerous situation, and, for the people causing the mischief, it could mean terrorism and false-report charges.

Now, AL.com’s John Sharp reports that Tuberville’s home in South Walton, Florida, was also the target of a swatting just a few hours before the one in Auburn.

The report from the Walton County Sheriff’s Office said a male voice that “sounded Russian” reported that, at Tuberville’s residence, a woman had been shot in the head with an AR-15, a man was tied up inside, and someone was demanding $10,000.

That call was made shortly after 5 p.m. Tuberville was not present at the time, but he arrived back at his beach home around 6:37 p.m. The swatting incident in Auburn happened later that night.

Walton County authorities believe the swatter might’ve been an 18-year-old from California who has since been sentenced to 48 months in prison for crimes in connection to hundreds of swatting and threatening calls.

Tuberville is co-sponsoring legislation that would impose strict federal penalties against swatters. Penalties would include 20 years in prison for a swatting attack that causes somebody to be seriously hurt.

Defending Fetterman

U.S. Sen. Katie Britt, an Enterprise Republican, has voiced her support for colleague John Fetterman, a Pennsylvania Democrat, in the face of scrutiny of his mental health and criticism of his willingness to part with party, reports AL.com’s Patrick Darrington.

That his voting with Republicans has rankled Democrats is no surprise in increasingly “you’re either with us or against us” Washington. His state of mind is a subject again after news reports last week: The Associated Press reported on an outburst at a meeting in which Fetterman reportedly asked why everybody hates him, and New York Magazine cited staffers and advisers questioning his mental fitness.

Britt and Fetterman both were elected to the Senate in 2022 and have developed a friendship. Britt took to social media to say that Fetterman “is a tremendous friend and colleague. It’s a complete disgrace what agenda-driven members of the media and his own party are doing to attack him, all because he dares to be an independent thinker and voice. Proud to stand with John.”

Defending Fetterman

That his voting with Republicans has rankled Democrats is no surprise in increasingly “you’re either with us or against us” Washington.

His state of mind is a subject again after news reports last week: The Associated Press reported on an outburst at a meeting in which Fetterman reportedly asked why everybody hates him, and New York Magazine cited staffers and advisers questioning his mental fitness.

A timely gift

An Emmy Award winner has donated a million dollars to Talladega College, reports AL.com’s Hannah Denham.

S. Epatha Merkerson may be best known for playing Lt. Van Buren on Law & Order. She’s also been Sharon Goodwin on Chicago Med and Reba the Mail Lady on Peewee’s Playhouse.

She was the keynote speaker for the HBCU’s commencement on May 4, and the school gave her an honorary doctorate.

The school has struggled financially in recent years but recently secured a $15 million loan.

Talladega College’s 2023 budget was $34 million, according to the college’s Year in Review, so a million is nothing to sniff at.

Quoting

“Please consider kindness before attacking meteorologists for words or graphics that describe ‘the Gulf.’ We are just trying to forecast the weather and tell you when dangerous storms are coming.”

ABC 33/40 meteorologist James Spann, in a Facebook post.

Today’s Barkley-ism

“I don’t even think that’s controversial … I don’t wanna hear you try to explain it to me. No, no, no, I don’t wanna hear it. I’m not gonna argue with you. Men shouldn’t play sports against woman. I’m done.”

Charles Barkley, on Outkick’s “Don’t @ Me With Dan Dakich,” explaining that he is supportive of the transgender community but doesn’t believe biological males should be permitted to play in women’s sports.

More Alabama News

Alabama News Quiz results/answers

Overall results:

Five out of five: 44.1%
Four out of five: 39.7%
Three out of five: 12.3%
Two out of five: 2.7%
One out of five: 1.1%
None out of five: 0.0%

Similar to Amber alerts, these cellphone messages have been approved by the Alabama Legislature and signed into law by Gov. Kay Ivey.

Shark-attack alerts (CORRECT) 96.2%
Cases of eastern equine encephalitis 1.9%
Kangaroo sightings 1.1%
Quarter-by-quarter scores during the Iron Bowl 0.8%

While an RFK Jr.-sparked debate simmers over fluoridation of water systems, how many of Alabama’s largest 10 cities add fluoride to their water?

All ten (CORRECT) 65.5%
Eight 15.1%
Four 14.5%
None 4.9%

Demolition is underway on this long-time Alabama venue that has hosted major music acts since the 1980s.

Oak Mountain Amphitheater (CORRECT) 87.9%
Legion Field 4.4%
Montgomery Performing Arts Center 4.4%
Wharf Amphitheater 3.3%

It’s been reported that former Alabama football coach Nick Saban may soon serve in this group.

Presidential Commission on College Athletics (CORRECT) 91.5%
College Football Playoff Selection Committee 7.4%
Department of Government Efficiency 1.1%
Future Farmers of America 0.0%

What’s the name of the bill signed into law by Gov. Ivey that prohibits the use of cellphones in public-school classrooms?

FOCUS Act (CORRECT) 81.9%
ENGAGE Act 8.8%
SMARTER Act 8.8%
Bring Back the 1980s Law 0.5%

Born on This Date

In 1943, guitarist David Walker of Montgomery. He was an original member of Gary Lewis and the Playboys.

The podcast

General

Death County, PA, Episode 4: A push for change at the notorious prison

SUBSCRIBE AND LISTEN: Wondery | Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Other podcast platforms

Just as deaths were piling up at a Pennsylvania county jail in recent years, the prison started making it even harder for the public to find out what was going on inside.

The warden started listening in on phone calls between prisoners and PennLive reporter Josh Vaughn. And then the Dauphin County jail, located just outside of Harrisburg, stopped providing information about violent physical altercations.

But even as the jail was making it harder to get information from the inside, a push for change started to gain momentum from the outside.

That’s according to a new episode of “Death County, PA”, a podcast co-produced by PennLive and Wondery, which was released Monday. The podcast hit the top of Apple’s podcast charts two days after it was widely released. A new episode is being released every week. This week’s episode highlights problems with health care services inside the jail and some of the forces working to bring about change on the outside.

Justin Douglas, the pastor of a local church, decided to challenge a hand-selected member of Dauphin County’s “good old boys” club for a seat on the county commission, which oversees the prison.

Douglas made prison reform his signature campaign issue, even though some political advisors told him it was not a winning issue in a conservative area. Against the will of his political consultants, Douglas spent nearly half of his campaign funds on a giant billboard with a small photo of him but giant letters that read: “18 prisoners dead since 2019. Vote for change on November 7.”

Douglas then formed an alliance with Lamont Jones, who lost a 21-year-old family member in Dauphin County’s jail, as Jones decided to run for Harrisburg city council. Jones already had success pushing for change inside the jail as part of the public advisory board. After Jones’ advocacy, the jail stopped charging prisoners fees as high as $25 per day while they were incarcerated. The money was due upon their release and Jones argued it made them more likely to have to go back to a life of crime.

The first few episodes of “Death County, Pa.” focused on the deaths of two other prisoners who died under suspicious circumstances.

Wondery has developed a number of award-winning, long-form podcast series, some of which have gone on to be produced into TV series.

PennLive is a news site run by Advance Local, one of the largest media groups in the United States, operating in 20 cities.

Wondery created the series in collaboration with PennLive, a news site run by Advance Local, one of the largest media groups in the United States, operating in 20 cities.

General

Flood advisory in place for Alabama until Monday morning due to significant rainfall

The National Weather Service issued a flood advisory at 3:29 a.m. on Monday in effect until 6:30 a.m. for Calhoun, Cherokee, Clay, Cleburne, Etowah, Randolph, St. Clair and Talladega counties.

The weather service adds, “Urban and small stream flooding caused by excessive rainfall is expected.”

“Minor flooding in low-lying and poor drainage areas. River or stream flows are elevated,” says the weather service. “Turn around, don’t drown when encountering flooded roads. Most flood deaths occur in vehicles. Be especially cautious at night when it is harder to recognize the dangers of flooding.”

Understanding the differences between advisories, watches, and warnings

Flash flood warning: Take action!

A flash flood warning is issued when a flash flood is imminent or occurring. If you are in a flood-prone area, move immediately to high ground. A flash flood is a sudden violent flood that can take from minutes to hours to develop. It is even possible to experience a flash flood in areas not immediately receiving rain.

Flood warning: Take action!

A flood warning is declared when flooding is on the verge of happening or is already underway.

Flood advisory: Be aware:

Flood watch: Be prepared:

A flood watch is issued when conditions are favorable for flooding. It doesn’t guarantee that flooding will occur, but it signifies that the possibility exists.

Weathering the storm: Flood safety guidelines from the weather service

In flood-prone regions or while camping in low-lying areas, understanding and following the weather service flood safety guidelines can be a lifesaver:

Seek higher ground:

If you’re in a flood-prone area, or if you’re camping in a low-lying spot, move to higher ground as a first step.

Adhere to evacuation orders:

If local authorities issue an evacuation order, heed it promptly. Prior to leaving, secure your home by locking it.

Disconnect utilities and appliances:

If time permits, disconnect your utilities and appliances. This precaution minimizes electrical hazards during flooding.

Avoid basements and submerged areas:

Steer clear of basements or rooms where water has submerged electrical outlets or cords. This helps prevent electrical accidents.

Swift evacuation for your safety:

If you notice sparks or hear buzzing, crackling, snapping, or popping sounds, evacuate without delay. Do not enter water that may carry an electrical charge.

Refrain from walking in floodwaters:

Never attempt to walk through floodwaters. Even just 6 inches of swiftly moving water can forcefully knock you off your feet.

Seek higher ground when trapped:

Should you become trapped by moving water, reach the highest point possible and dial 911 to contact emergency services.

During heavy rainfall, there is a risk of flooding, especially in low-lying and flood-prone areas. Remember to never drive through water on the road, even if it seems shallow. According to the weather service, as little as 12 inches of rapidly flowing water can carry away most cars. Prioritize your safety by staying informed and prepared.

Navigating heavy rain: Essential safety measures for wet roads

When heavy rain strikes, safety is paramount. Equip yourself with these guidelines from the weather service to navigate wet roads and avoid hazards:

Beware of rapid water flow:

In heavy rain, refrain from parking or walking near culverts or drainage ditches, where swift-moving water can pose a grave danger.

Maintain safe driving distances:

Use the two-second rule to maintain a safe distance from the car in front of you and allow an extra two seconds in heavy rain.

Slow down and drive with care:

If it is raining and the roads are wet, slow down. Take your foot off the accelerator and let your speed drop gradually. Never use the brakes suddenly because this may cause the car to skid.

Choose your lane wisely:

Stick to the middle lanes to minimize the risk of hydroplaning. Outer lanes are more prone to accumulating water.

Visibility matters:

Enhance your visibility in heavy rain by turning on your headlights. Watch out for vehicles in blind spots, as rain-smeared windows can obscure them.

Watch out for slippery roads:

The initial half-hour of rain is when roads are slickest due to a mixture of rain, grime, and oil. Exercise heightened caution during this period.

Keep a safe distance from large vehicles:

Large trucks and buses can reduce your visibility with tire spray. Avoid tailgating and pass them swiftly and safely.

Mind your windshield wipers:

Overloaded wiper blades can hinder visibility. If rain severely impairs your vision, pull over and wait for conditions to improve. Seek refuge at rest areas or sheltered spots.
If the roadside is your only option, pull off as far as possible, preferably past the end of a guard rail, and wait until the storm passes. Keep your headlights on and turn on emergency flashers to alert other drivers of your position.

Advance Local Weather Alerts is a service provided by United Robots, which uses machine learning to compile the latest data from the National Weather Service.

General

Flood advisory in place for Central Alabama until Monday morning due to significant downpours

At 3 a.m. on Monday, the National Weather Service released a flood advisory in effect until 8 a.m. for Elmore, Lowndes and Montgomery counties.

The weather service adds, “Urban and small stream flooding caused by excessive rainfall is expected as additional showers and some thunderstorms approach from the southwest and move over the advisory area.”

“Minor flooding in low-lying and poor drainage areas. River or stream flows are elevated,” states the weather service. “Turn around, don’t drown when encountering flooded roads. Most flood deaths occur in vehicles. Be especially cautious at night when it is harder to recognize the dangers of flooding.”

Deciphering advisories, watches, and warnings: Understanding weather alerts

Flash flood warning: Take action!

Flood warning: Take action!

A flood warning is issued when flooding is imminent or occurring.

Flood advisory: Be aware:

A flood advisory is released when flooding is not expected to reach a severity level necessitating a warning. Nonetheless, it can still cause considerable inconvenience and, without exercising caution, potentially lead to situations that threaten life and/or property.

Flood watch: Be prepared:

A flood watch is issued when conditions are favorable for flooding. It doesn’t guarantee that flooding will occur, but it signifies that the possibility exists.

Be flood-ready: Expert guidance from the weather service for your safety

In flood-prone regions or while camping in low-lying areas, understanding and following the weather service flood safety guidelines can be a lifesaver:

Move to higher ground:

If you reside in a flood-prone region or are camping in low-lying terrain, the first step to safety is relocating to higher ground.

Follow evacuation orders:

When local authorities issue an evacuation order, promptly comply. Before leaving, secure your home by locking it.

Disconnect utilities and appliances:

If time permits, disconnect your utilities and appliances. This precaution minimizes electrical hazards during flooding.

Avoid basements and submerged areas:

Avoid basements or rooms submerged in water with electrical outlets or cords. Preventing electrical accidents is crucial.

Swift evacuation for your safety:

If you notice sparks or hear buzzing, crackling, snapping, or popping sounds, evacuate without delay. Do not enter water that may carry an electrical charge.

Stay away from floodwaters:

Never attempt to walk through floodwaters. Even just 6 inches of swiftly moving water can forcefully knock you off your feet.

Seek high ground if trapped:

Should you become trapped by moving water, reach the highest point possible and dial 911 to contact emergency services.

Mastering wet roads: Safety tips for heavy rainfall

When heavy rain pours, the risk of flooding and treacherous roads rises. Here’s your guide from the weather service to staying safe during downpours:

Beware of swollen waterways:

In heavy rain, refrain from parking or walking near culverts or drainage ditches, where swift-moving water can pose a grave danger.

Maintain safe driving distances:

Adhere to the two-second rule for maintaining a safe following distance behind the vehicle in front of you. In heavy rain, allow an additional two seconds of distance to compensate for reduced traction and braking effectiveness.

Slow down and stay cautious:

If it is raining and the roads are wet, slow down. Take your foot off the accelerator and let your speed drop gradually. Never use the brakes suddenly because this may cause the car to skid.

Choose your lane wisely:

Stick to the middle lanes on multi-lane roads to minimize the risk of hydroplaning, as water tends to accumulate in outer lanes.

Visibility matters:

Turn on your headlights and be careful of other vehicles to the rear and in blind spot areas as they are especially difficult to see through rain-spattered windows.

Watch out for slippery roads:

The initial half-hour of rain is when roads are slickest due to a mixture of rain, grime, and oil. Exercise heightened caution during this period.

Keep a safe distance from large vehicles:

Large trucks and buses can reduce your visibility with tire spray. Avoid tailgating and pass them swiftly and safely.

Mind your windshield wipers:

Overloaded wiper blades can hinder visibility. If rain severely impairs your vision, pull over and wait for conditions to improve. Seek refuge at rest areas or sheltered spots.
If the roadside is your only option, pull off as far as possible, preferably past the end of a guard rail, and wait until the storm passes. Keep your headlights on and turn on emergency flashers to alert other drivers of your position.

In the face of heavy rain, these precautions can make a significant difference in ensuring your safety on the road. Remember to stay informed about weather conditions and heed guidance from local authorities for a secure journey.

Advance Local Weather Alerts is a service provided by United Robots, which uses machine learning to compile the latest data from the National Weather Service.

General

Flood advisory affecting Central Alabama until 3 a.m. Monday due to significant rainfall

On Monday at 12:35 a.m. a flood advisory was issued by the National Weather Service in effect until 3:45 a.m. for Autauga, Chilton and Coosa counties.

The weather service states, “Urban and small stream flooding caused by excessive rainfall is expected.”

“Minor flooding in low-lying and poor drainage areas. Water over roadways. River or stream flows are elevated,” says the weather service. “Turn around, don’t drown when encountering flooded roads. Most flood deaths occur in vehicles. Be especially cautious at night when it is harder to recognize the dangers of flooding.”

Deciphering advisories, watches, and warnings: Understanding weather alerts

Flash flood warning: Take action!

Flood warning: Take action!

A flood warning is issued when flooding is imminent or occurring.

Flood advisory: Be aware:

Flood watch: Be prepared:

A flood watch is issued when conditions are favorable for flooding. It doesn’t guarantee that flooding will occur, but it signifies that the possibility exists.

Be flood-ready: Expert guidance from the weather service for your safety

Floods can pose a significant threat, especially if you live in a flood-prone area or find yourself camping in a low-lying region. To ensure your safety, the weather service offers essential flood safety guidelines:

Move to higher ground:

If you’re in a flood-prone area, or if you’re camping in a low-lying spot, move to higher ground as a first step.

Adhere to evacuation orders:

When local authorities issue an evacuation order, promptly comply. Before leaving, secure your home by locking it.

Disconnect utilities and appliances:

If time allows, disconnect your utilities and appliances. This reduces the risk of electrical hazards during flooding.

Steer clear of flooded basements and submerged areas:

Avoid basements or rooms submerged in water with electrical outlets or cords. Preventing electrical accidents is crucial.

Evacuate promptly for safety:

If you notice sparks or hear buzzing, crackling, snapping, or popping noises, evacuate immediately. Avoid any water that may be charged with electricity.

Stay away from floodwaters:

Never attempt to walk through floodwaters, even if they appear shallow. Just 6 inches of fast-moving water can forcefully sweep you off your feet.

Seek higher ground when trapped:

In the event you become trapped by moving water, make your way to the highest point available and contact emergency services by calling 911.

During periods of intense rainfall, the risk of flooding increases, particularly in low-lying and flood-prone areas. It is imperative to avoid driving through any water on the road, even if it seems shallow. According to the weather service, most cars can be swept away by just 12 inches of rushing water. Stay safe by being prepared and informed.

Mastering wet roads: Safety tips for heavy rainfall

When heavy rain strikes, safety is paramount. Equip yourself with these guidelines from the weather service to navigate wet roads and avoid hazards:

Beware of swollen waterways:

During heavy rain, avoid parking or walking near culverts or drainage ditches, where swift-moving water can pose a serious risk.

Maintain safe driving distances:

Use the two-second rule to maintain a safe distance from the car in front of you and allow an extra two seconds in heavy rain.

Reduce speed and drive cautiously:

On wet roads, reducing your speed is crucial. Ease off the gas pedal gradually and avoid abrupt braking to prevent skidding.

Choose your lane wisely:

Stay toward the middle lanes – water tends to pool in the outside lanes.

Prioritize visibility:

Enhance your visibility in heavy rain by turning on your headlights. Watch out for vehicles in blind spots, as rain-smeared windows can obscure them.

Watch out for slippery roads:

Be extra careful during the first half hour after rain begins. Grime and oil on the road surface mix with water to make the road slippery.

Keep a safe distance from large vehicles:

Large trucks and buses can reduce your visibility with tire spray. Avoid tailgating and pass them swiftly and safely.

Mind your windshield wipers:

Overloaded wiper blades can hinder visibility. If rain severely impairs your vision, pull over and wait for conditions to improve. Seek refuge at rest areas or sheltered spots.
When stopping by the roadside is your only option, position your vehicle as far off the road as possible, ideally beyond guardrails. Keep your headlights on and activate emergency flashers to alert other drivers of your position.

Advance Local Weather Alerts is a service provided by United Robots, which uses machine learning to compile the latest data from the National Weather Service.