Mobile police arrest possible shooter, use new detection system

MOBILE COUNTY, Ala. (WKRG) — Mobile police were able to locate a possible shooter using the department’s new gunshot detection system, ShotSpotter. The new system went online on Tuesday, July 26.

ShotSpotter is part of a department-wide initiative Operation Echo Stop and is one of many “tools” officers use to combat gun violence, according to a news release from the Mobile Police Department. It serves as a gunshot detection system to alert MPD of shots fired to quickly locate a shooter or incident.

According to the release, officers were notified of shots fired Tuesday night and were able to quickly “locate the shooter, a juvenile male.” The suspect was taken into custody and transported to the Strickland Youth Center.

The Mobile Police Department remains committed to reducing the illegal use of firearms and serious crime to protect the quality of life of the people living in our communities. ShotSpotter technology is just one component of a larger gunshot detection and crime prevention strategy designed to help law enforcement officers identify, locate and ultimately deter gun violence. Real-time alerts notify officers exactly when and where there is a shooting, leading to faster and more accurate responses.

Mobile police station

The department said residents can expect to see fewer shootings now that ShotSpotter is “fully online.” According to the release, the detection system will be used in addition to normal officer patrols and technology available to MPD, but “the most important component to preventing gun violence is community involvement.”

The See Something Say Something tip line is available to all residents to assist officers in any way they can. If you see or hear gunshots, you are encouraged to text or call with any information at 251-404-4066.