Marcus Dangelo Sanders Arrested for Murder of Carl Williams III During Shocking Shooting at Children’s Dance Recital in Mobile

Mobile, AL (June 2, 2025) — A Sunday afternoon intended to celebrate the talents of local children turned into a scene of chaos and tragedy when gunfire erupted inside the historic Saenger Theatre in Downtown Mobile during a dance recital. One man is dead, and another has been arrested and charged in connection with what police are describing as a targeted act of violence.

The Mobile Police Department has confirmed the arrest of Marcus Dangelo Sanders, 27, who has been charged with murder and first-degree assault following the deadly incident. Sanders was booked into the Mobile Metro Jail just after 11 p.m. Sunday, several hours after the shooting rocked the theater.

Authorities identified the deceased victim as Carl Williams III, also 27. According to investigators, the shooting took place during an intermission in the recital, when many families were gathered in the lobby and auditorium, celebrating their children’s performances. Witnesses described a sudden eruption of gunfire that sent parents, children, and performers scrambling for cover inside the ornate 1920s-era venue.

A Scene of Panic and Heartbreak

Dozens of families had packed into the Saenger Theatre for what was supposed to be a joyful afternoon. Cell phone footage captured the moments immediately after the gunshots, showing frantic parents shielding their children and ushering them out of exits as police and first responders arrived on scene.

Carl Williams III was found at the scene suffering from multiple gunshot wounds and was pronounced dead shortly after emergency medical personnel arrived. A second individual sustained injuries described as serious but non-life-threatening. That individual’s identity has not been released, and the police have not confirmed their connection to the incident or to either of the two men involved.

“This was not a random act,” said Mobile Police Chief Paul Prine during a late-night press briefing. “Our preliminary investigation suggests this was a targeted shooting. Sadly, it happened in a place and at a time when children and families were gathered in peace and celebration.”

Investigation and Arrest

Authorities launched a manhunt Sunday evening, canvassing the area and reviewing security footage from the Saenger Theatre and surrounding businesses. By nightfall, detectives had identified Sanders as the primary suspect. He was taken into custody without incident and is now being held without bond pending a first court appearance.

Police have not released details regarding the motive behind the shooting but confirmed that Sanders and Williams knew each other and that the incident appears to have stemmed from a personal dispute. Whether the victim or suspect had any direct involvement in the recital remains unclear.

“We are working diligently to piece together what led to this senseless act,” Chief Prine said. “But what we do know is that innocent people, including children, were put at risk, and one life has been tragically lost.”

Community Reaction

News of the shooting has shaken the Mobile community. Many parents who were in attendance at the recital took to social media to share their horror and heartbreak over the events. Several praised the quick response of theater staff, local police, and other parents who acted fast to protect the children.

Mobile Mayor Sandy Stimpson issued a statement late Sunday night expressing sorrow and outrage.

“This is an unthinkable tragedy. Our hearts are with the families impacted, especially the loved ones of the young man whose life was lost,” Stimpson said. “Violence has no place in our community — especially not at an event meant to showcase the joy and talent of our children.”

The Saenger Theatre, a cherished cultural landmark in downtown Mobile, is expected to remain closed temporarily as authorities continue their investigation and assess the need for additional security measures in future public events.

Looking Ahead

As the investigation unfolds, community members are grappling with the broader implications of gun violence in public spaces. Several local officials and advocacy groups are already calling for enhanced security protocols at performance venues and community events, especially those involving children.

Meanwhile, Sanders awaits formal charges in court, and the family of Carl Williams III mourns a life cut short. Loved ones have not yet released a statement but are reportedly planning a vigil in his memory later this week.

Mobile police urge anyone who witnessed the shooting or has information to come forward by contacting the department’s Major Crimes Unit or anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 251-208-7211.

Updates will be provided as more information becomes available.