Gunfire Erupts Inside Dothan’s Wiregrass Commons Mall, Leaving One Man Critically Injured

DOTHAN, AL (October 13, 2025) — Panic and chaos erupted inside the Wiregrass Commons Mall over the weekend when an exchange of gunfire broke out inside a barber shop, leaving one man critically injured and sending shoppers running for cover. The shocking incident has left the Dothan community rattled, with authorities now intensifying efforts to identify and apprehend those responsible.

According to the Dothan Police Department, the shooting occurred around 5:45 p.m. Saturday, when multiple 911 calls flooded in reporting gunshots near the Fade Factory Barber Shop inside the mall. Witnesses described a scene of confusion and terror as the sound of gunfire echoed through the corridors, prompting store employees and shoppers to seek shelter in back rooms and behind counters.

When officers arrived on the scene, they discovered a man suffering from multiple gunshot wounds. He was immediately transported to a nearby hospital in critical condition. Authorities have not yet released his identity but confirmed that he remains under intensive medical care.

Detectives quickly secured the area, shutting down the mall for several hours as they gathered evidence and interviewed witnesses. Surveillance footage is being reviewed to determine the sequence of events that led to the shooting, which police believe stemmed from an altercation between individuals inside the barber shop.

“We’re asking anyone who was in the mall at the time and may have seen or heard something to come forward,” said Dothan Police Chief Will Benny. “This was an extremely dangerous situation that could have ended with far more victims. We are committed to finding those responsible and bringing them to justice.”

For shoppers and workers who were present, the experience was nothing short of terrifying. “It was chaos,” said one witness who was shopping nearby. “We heard the shots and everyone just started running. I grabbed my kids and ducked into a store until it was safe to leave.”

The Wiregrass Commons Mall, a popular weekend destination for local families, has since reopened under heightened security. Police have increased patrols in the area and are working closely with mall management to ensure the safety of patrons in the days ahead.

Community members have expressed deep concern over the recent wave of gun violence in the region, calling for greater efforts to curb conflict before it escalates into tragedy. City officials have urged residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to authorities.

As the victim continues to fight for his life, family members and friends are asking for prayers and privacy during this difficult time. A small group gathered outside the hospital Sunday evening to hold a candlelight vigil, hoping for his recovery and calling for peace in their community.

The investigation remains ongoing, and police are urging anyone with information about the suspects or their whereabouts to contact the Dothan Police Department or Crime Stoppers immediately.

What began as a routine Saturday afternoon at the mall turned into a frightening ordeal that will not soon be forgotten. As Dothan residents come together in the aftermath, they are united in their hope for healing, justice, and a renewed sense of safety in their community.