Crime
23-year-old Bobby Lucas killed during large Pike County party shooting
PIKE COUNTY, Ala. — Authorities are investigating a deadly shooting that occurred early Sunday morning during a large private party attended by several hundred people in Pike County.
The victim has been identified as 23-year-old Bobby Lee David Mircle Lucas, a resident of Dothan, according to the Pike County Sheriff’s Office.
Deputies responded to reports of gunfire just before 12:30 a.m. Sunday at a private event venue known as Hideaways, located on Gardner Bassett Road.
Sheriff Russell Thomas said that between 300 and 350 people were inside the venue when shots were fired. “We knew there was a huge party being planned,” Thomas said. “It was well advertised. We had seen the flyers, and we were very concerned. Unfortunately, what we feared might happen did.”
Lucas reportedly attempted to escape the gunfire and made it to the front door before collapsing.
He was pronounced deceased a short time later.
Two deputies who were patrolling nearby arrived on the scene almost immediately after shots were fired. “Once the shooting started, it was a mass exodus,” Thomas explained. “Everyone got in their cars and left.”
Investigators remained at the location until approximately 6 a.m., processing evidence and interviewing witnesses.
As of Monday, no arrests have been made, and the investigation remains ongoing.
Sheriff Thomas noted that because the event center is privately owned, its operators are not required to hold a business or liquor license.
He said the individuals organizing the party were from Birmingham, and attendees had traveled from across central and southern Alabama, including Montgomery, Mobile, and Dothan.
“It’s a really tough situation,” Thomas said. “It’s tragic to see a young man lose his life over something that could have been prevented. When you mix alcohol, marijuana, and large groups of young people, it’s a recipe for disaster.”
The sheriff called for state legislation to regulate private event venues, noting that similar incidents have occurred elsewhere in Alabama. “We need the legislature to step in because these things are happening all over the state,” he said.
Anyone with information related to the shooting is urged to contact Pike County Sheriff’s Office detectives at 334-566-4347.
Authorities are investigating a fatal shooting that occurred early Saturday morning during a domestic altercation at an apartment on Mel Smith Road, located in an unincorporated area outside New Albany.
The Floyd County Sheriff’s Office (FCSO) received the initial emergency call at approximately 5:39 a.m. on November 15, 2025, reporting a disturbance involving family members.
While officers were en route, additional information indicated that shots had been fired inside the residence.
Upon arrival, deputies encountered a domestic situation involving a mother and her two adult sons.
Officers immediately secured the scene and began administering medical aid to one of the men who had sustained gunshot wounds.
The second male remained at the location and cooperated fully with responding officers.
The injured individual was transported to a nearby hospital; however, he later died as a result of his injuries.
Detectives with the Floyd County Criminal Investigations Division (CID) have taken over the case and processed the scene for evidence.
Early findings suggest the shooting may have occurred in self-defense, though officials emphasize that the investigation is still in its preliminary stages.
The Floyd County Sheriff’s Office confirmed that the incident was isolated and that there is no ongoing threat to the public.
Authorities state that additional updates will be released as the investigation progresses and more information becomes available.
The case remains active.