HOOVER, ALABAMA – Three suspects involved in the tragic 2020 shooting at the Riverchase Galleria in Hoover are gearing up for their upcoming separate trials. The incident occurred in July 2020, resulting in the death of 8-year-old Royta Giles, Jr., alongside injuries to two adults and another child. Montez Coleman, King Williams, and Demetrius Jackson, Jr. face charges of capital murder of a person under the age of 14 and three counts of second-degree assault.
Legal representatives for all three suspects have asserted claims of self-defense in response to the charges brought against them. Each suspect is set to face trial on different dates, with Coleman’s trial scheduled for June 10, Williams’ trial on July 29, and Jackson’s trial on September 29.
Giles, a student at Jonesboro Elementary School in Bessemer, was at the mall with his family when the tragic incident unfolded. The shooting took place as they were waiting to enter a store, which had COVID-related restrictions in place. Following the shooting, Officer Schylur Parrish of the Hoover Police Department described the heartbreaking scene he encountered and his immediate response to provide aid to the injured child.
According to police reports, the shooting is believed to have stemmed from a prior altercation. Despite the charges leveled against the suspects, it is important to note that all individuals are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
In the aftermath of the shooting, Giles’ mother has filed a wrongful death lawsuit naming several parties, including the former general manager of the Riverchase Galleria, the security company overseeing the premises, and the owner/operator of the mall. Subsequently, the Riverchase Galleria has bolstered its security measures, including the addition of a K9 unit through Allied Universal Security Services.
Along with heightened security, the mall has implemented a Code of Conduct outlining prohibited activities to ensure the safety and well-being of all visitors. Violations of the rules may result in ejection from the premises or potential legal action. As the community continues to grapple with the aftermath of the tragedy, efforts to enhance safety and security measures remain a top priority for all involved parties.