Gunman Shoots Alabama Judge, Son in Custody – Serious Condition Reported

Montgomery, Alabama – A tragic incident unfolded in Montgomery, Alabama when a judge was left in serious condition after being shot by his own son during a heated argument. Judge Johnny Hardwick of Montgomery County’s Fifteenth Judicial Circuit was allegedly gunned down by his son Khalfani Hardwick at their Montgomery home. Khalfani, a convict with a history of violence, fled the scene after the shooting but was later apprehended by authorities.

The motive behind the violent altercation remains unclear, as investigators work to piece together the events leading up to the shooting. Khalfani, who had evaded imprisonment for a prior murder case, is suspected of being the shooter according to the county sheriff’s office. Judge Hardwick sustained serious injuries and underwent surgery following the incident.

Despite the gravity of the situation, Khalfani has not yet been formally charged with a crime. His past involvement in a fatal shooting in 2014, where he admitted to shooting a man in the head, has raised concerns about his violent history. The judge’s son was able to skirt prison time in that case, a fact that has garnered attention in light of the recent events.

Judge Hardwick, a respected figure in the judicial circuit since 2001, is currently receiving treatment for his injuries. His role as the president of the Alabama Association of Circuit Court Judges underscores the shockwaves sent through the legal community by the tragic incident. As the investigation into the shooting continues, the community grapples with the repercussions of a family dispute turned deadly.

The case serves as a stark reminder of the dangers that can arise from domestic conflicts and the devastating impact of violence within families. The incident has prompted discussions about the need for intervention and support for individuals with histories of violence, as well as the importance of addressing underlying issues to prevent such tragedies from occurring in the future. As the legal process unfolds and more details come to light, the Montgomery community looks toward healing and justice in the aftermath of this harrowing event.