Montgomery, Alabama — A wave of heartbreak has swept through the city after the fatal downtown mass shooting that claimed the life of Shalanda “Rena” Williams, leaving her family devastated and her two young children without a mother. The tragedy, which occurred last weekend, has reignited concerns about escalating gun violence in the community.

Family members describe Williams as a loving, compassionate woman who always sought peace, never conflict. Her cousin, who spoke through tears, said the family is struggling to process the sudden and violent nature of her death. “She was a great person, always smiling, always trying to make others happy,” he said.

Williams leaves behind a 24-year-old daughter and a 6-year-old son, both of whom were deeply connected to her. Family members say the young boy rarely left his mother’s side, a testament to the strong bond they shared. “Every time you saw Rena, you saw her son,” her cousin said. “Now, all he has is his sister and his auntie.”

The family’s grief deepened when they discovered a disturbing video circulating online that showed the aftermath of the shooting. They had already received confirmation of her death, but seeing the footage left them emotionally shattered. “That was really traumatizing,” her cousin shared. “I wish I could unsee it. To see her in that state—it’s something I’ll never forget.”

The shocking images have made it difficult for the family to return to downtown Montgomery, the very place where Williams lost her life. “We probably won’t be able to go downtown again,” her cousin admitted. “Just seeing the location in that video, it’s too painful to relive.”

Police have not yet released additional details about the shooter or what led to the deadly incident, but investigators have confirmed multiple victims were injured in the mass shooting. The city has since suspended its downtown entertainment district as officials assess safety measures and address concerns about violence.

For Williams’ family, the tragedy has sparked both sorrow and reflection. They have expressed forgiveness toward the person responsible but are pleading for an end to the cycle of gun violence. “I pray for the perpetrator,” her cousin said. “I don’t know how anyone can sleep at night knowing they’ve caused so much harm.”

A GoFundMe page has been set up to help cover funeral expenses and to support Williams’ children. Donations have begun pouring in from friends, coworkers, and members of the Montgomery community, all offering words of comfort and solidarity.

Community leaders and residents alike have called for stronger efforts to curb shootings in the city. Vigils are being planned to honor Williams’ memory and to call for unity and peace amid rising violence.

As Montgomery mourns another life cut short, Williams’ family hopes her story serves as a wake-up call — a reminder of the devastating human toll of gunfire and the urgent need for change. “She didn’t deserve this,” her cousin said softly. “No one does. We just want her to be remembered for her kindness, not the way she died.”