Huntsville group rallies against violence

HUNTSVILLE, AL (WAFF) - "Chill Huntsville & Stop the Violence" hosted speakers, singers and games Sunday at James Crawford Park. Speakers encouraged the crowd of roughly 70 to spread peace in the community.

The event came on the heels of a triple homicide on Knollbrook Drive and a shooting on Lee Drive that left four injured.

Earlier Sunday afternoon, Huntsville Police responded to an incident on North Memorial Parkway where two individuals received minor injuries from what appeared to be blunt objects. Police said it could be a "shots fired" incident, but they are still investigating.

"Chill Huntsville" Executive Director Cornell Martin emceed the group's event. He said one shooting in the community is too many.

"We're sick and tired of this, we're going to do what we have to do to shut them down," said Martin. He said he supports whatever Huntsville Police need to do to curb the violence.

Huntsville Police Chief Mark McMurray attended the event with three other officers.

Martin said he wants more locals in the community watch and to help pick up trash off the streets.

Churches from Pulaski County, Tenn. also traveled south to support Martin and the movement.

Pulaski Pastor Stanley Garrett said he wants more compassion in the Tennessee Valley, which is why he came.

"One person's problem is all of our problems. Sinning is just like Cancer. It spreads and affects us all one way or another sooner or later," said Garrett.

Church and corporate partners sponsored food and gifts for attendees.

"Chill Huntsville" was founded earlier this year after multiple shootings in January.

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