A 26‑year‑old man and a 16‑year‑old are facing criminal charges after a shooting that erupted near R.C. Hatch High School in Uniontown, Alabama, just after a fundraising basketball game on July 18. The gunfire hit two occupied vehicles, one of which carried a woman and her two young children, though no injuries were reported.
A dispute, not bullying, drives the attack
Police Chief Michael Kiser said investigators have determined the incident stems from an ongoing dispute rather than a one‑time bullying encounter. The teenager claimed he felt threatened after perceiving two individuals staring at him in an intimidating manner.
The adult suspect, identified as Sherman Deshuwn Cain, allegedly directed the juvenile to stay clear of the line of fire and made sure a firearm was available before the attack. Cain, who is already out on bond for a 2023 attempted‑murder case, also faces a felony charge of possessing a controlled substance after narcotics were found on him at the time of his arrest.
The shooting unfolded as the intended target vehicle was leaving the school grounds and turning onto West Avenue. A bullet pierced the second vehicle’s headliner and roof, coming dangerously close to where a passenger could have been seated.
Community response and future safeguards
In the wake of the incident, local law enforcement is coordinating with the Perry County Sheriff’s Office and Uniontown Police to develop a plan that could place a certified school resource officer at the school. Officers also intend to increase direct outreach to students through classroom discussions, aiming to address motivations behind violence and to involve families in the solution.
Kiser emphasized that preventing youth violence will require not only police presence but also accountability within households, urging parents and guardians to examine the environments that may foster such aggressive behavior.