Pregnant woman “ambushed” by her ex-boyfriend following a verbal domestic dispute where he opened fire and killed her teen daughter, injured 5-year-old son
Alabama – A 27-year-old Alabama man has been charged with the killing of his ex-girlfriend’s 15-year-old daughter, C. Lathan, and wounding her 5-year-old brother. This violent act occurred at his pregnant ex-girlfriend’s home, marking a grim chapter in a series of domestic disturbances that had previously plagued the family.
O. Montgomery faces grave charges, including capital murder for the death of Lathan, and aggravated assault/attempted murder for the injuries inflicted upon her younger brother. Additional charges against him include discharging a firearm into an occupied dwelling. Following a swift law enforcement response, Montgomery was apprehended and booked in jail without the possibility of bond.
The shooting took place shortly before 12:30 p.m. last week. Despite previous police intervention earlier that day due to a verbal dispute, tensions escalated tragically. According to witnesses and police reports, Montgomery stood in the apartment complex’s parking lot and opened fire into the apartment where his ex-girlfriend and her children resided.
Lathan was pronounced dead at the scene at 12:25 p.m. Her brother, though wounded in the leg, survived with injuries that were not life-threatening and was promptly treated at the hospital. Their mother, who is pregnant, was also taken to the hospital for observation after the traumatic event.
Authorities acted swiftly to secure Montgomery’s arrest following a brief manhunt. Montgomery was located and placed under arrest shortly after. Police Chief S. Thurmond commended the rapid and effective actions of the police officers involved, emphasizing the importance of swift justice in maintaining community safety.
This incident, described by Chief Thurmond as “heinous,” highlights the ongoing issue of domestic violence within the community. He expressed profound distress over the impact of such violence on families, especially children, during what should be a carefree summer.
Court records reveal that Montgomery had a history of domestic violence involving the same woman. He was previously arrested last year on charges of third-degree domestic violence, where he allegedly punched the victim. However, this charge was dismissed due to a lack of prosecution. Montgomery is currently held in the detention center, awaiting further legal proceedings.
