Tragedy in Downtown Gadsden: Dakota Hallmark Found Shot to Death in Vehicle on 5th and Chestnut

Gadsden, AL – In a tragic incident that has sent waves of shock and sorrow throughout downtown Gadsden and the broader Etowah County community, the body of 29-year-old Dakota Hallmark was discovered early Sunday morning, June 22, 2025, inside his parked vehicle near the corner of 5th Street and Chestnut Street.

According to the Gadsden Police Department, officers responded shortly before 6:30 a.m. to multiple calls reporting an unresponsive individual seated in a vehicle. Upon arriving at the scene, officers located a dark-colored sedan with Hallmark inside. After assessing the scene and checking for vital signs, first responders confirmed the devastating news: Hallmark had been shot and was already deceased by the time help arrived.

Authorities immediately cordoned off the area, transforming the typically quiet downtown intersection into an active crime scene. A large section of the street was closed off for several hours as investigators processed evidence and canvassed the surrounding neighborhood for witnesses and surveillance footage. The Gadsden Police Department has since confirmed that the incident is being treated as a homicide.

Lieutenant James Parker, spokesperson for the department, addressed the media on Sunday afternoon:

“We are deeply saddened by this senseless act of violence. Mr. Hallmark’s family has been notified, and we are working tirelessly to determine who is responsible. At this time, we are asking for the public’s assistance. If anyone saw or heard anything suspicious near 5th and Chestnut between late Saturday night and early Sunday morning, we urge them to contact us immediately.”

A Life Cut Short

Dakota Hallmark was a well-known figure among Gadsden’s downtown community. Friends describe him as kindhearted, always willing to lend a hand, and someone who never met a stranger. He worked in the area, was active in local events, and had deep ties to the community. His sudden and violent death has left friends, coworkers, and family in shock and mourning.

“Dakota didn’t deserve this,” said a longtime friend. “He was one of the good ones. He was just starting to really find his path in life. I can’t believe he’s gone.”

Flowers and candles have already begun to appear near the intersection where his car was found—an impromptu memorial to honor a life lost far too soon.

Investigation Underway

While police have not released information about potential suspects or motives, sources close to the investigation suggest that authorities are examining both Hallmark’s personal connections and recent interactions to determine whether he may have been targeted or if the shooting was random. The vehicle is being examined by forensic teams, and nearby businesses are assisting by turning over any surveillance footage that might help piece together the timeline of events.

Detectives are also urging residents and business owners in the area to check their security cameras from late Saturday night through the early morning hours of Sunday, in hopes of identifying anyone seen approaching Hallmark’s vehicle or acting suspiciously in the vicinity.

Community Reacts

The murder has unsettled a community already grappling with concerns about crime and public safety. Downtown Gadsden, known for its small-town charm, walkable streets, and close-knit neighborhoods, is now the site of a tragedy that has left many reeling.

Mayor Craig Ford issued a brief statement on Sunday evening:

“This is a heartbreaking loss for our city. We mourn with Dakota Hallmark’s family and friends, and we are committed to supporting the Gadsden Police Department in finding those responsible and bringing them to justice. Our city will not tolerate violence, and we will not rest until answers are found.”

What Comes Next

The Gadsden Police Department is asking anyone with information related to this case to contact the Criminal Investigations Division at 256-549-4500 or to submit tips anonymously through Gadsden Etowah Crime Stoppers at 334-215-STOP.

As Gadsden grapples with this tragedy, Dakota Hallmark’s loved ones are preparing to lay him to rest, remembering him for his warmth, generosity, and the laughter he brought to those who knew him. While the investigation continues, the community now faces the dual challenge of mourning a lost son and demanding justice in his name.

This is a developing story. Further updates will be provided as new information becomes available.