Teen recounts the terror of Alabama mass shooting that killed her brother and 3 others at her Sweet 16

Alexis Dowdell’s Sweet 16 party was supposed to be a night filled with laughter, dancing, and celebration. However, it quickly turned into a nightmare that would change her life forever. Before the party, she confided in her big brother Phil, expressing her nervousness about the event she had planned for months. He made her laugh and promised to ensure that she had fun. Hours later, Phil was among four people who were fatally shot at the party, leaving 32 others injured.

Alexis recalls that her brother pushed her to the ground as the shooting began. Later, she pleaded with him to stay alive as he fought for his life. “Don’t give up on me,” she begged him, hoping against hope that he would survive. Phil’s consciousness wavered, and he was unable to respond.

The tragedy struck close to home, as those who died were people close to Alexis. Along with Phil, they included Marsiah Emmanuel Collins, 19; Shaunkivia “Keke” Nicole Smith, 17; and Corbin Dahmontrey Holston, 23. The Alabama Law Enforcement Agency stated that 32 people were injured, but they have not specified their ages or whether they were all shot. At least 15 teenagers were being treated for gunshot wounds at one hospital on Sunday.

Alexis’ mother, LaTonya Allen, was present at the venue’s entryway when the shooting began. She was struck twice during the chaos but did not realize it immediately. Panic and fear spread as people rushed to escape through the front door, leaving behind a floor littered with the injured and dying.

Alexis’ stepfather thought he saw Phil’s body on the floor in the dark venue, a fear that was confirmed when the lights were turned on, revealing Phil soaked in blood. Alexis, who had fled the room after her brother pushed her to the ground, rushed to his side and begged him to stay with her. Unfortunately, by the time first responders arrived, Phil had passed away.

As loved ones mourn the victims, they join countless other American families who have been shattered by gun violence. According to the Gun Violence Archive, over 160 mass shootings have occurred in the United States this year alone. The nonprofit defines mass shootings as those in which four or more people are shot, excluding the shooter.

Phil’s family is still struggling with confusion and disbelief, as there is little information available from investigators. They wonder why someone would pull out a gun at a kid’s party and start shooting, killing innocent lives and injuring others. Alexis and her family are left to grieve the loss of Phil, a promising young man whose life was cut short by senseless violence.