Mayor Battle Statement on Huntsville Police Office Arrest

Published on August 3, 2018

Mayor Tommy Battle released the following statement on today’s arrest of Officer William Darby with regard to the officer-involved shooting on Deramus Avenue in April.

“Suicide is a tragedy and has become all too prevalent in our society. It impacts our friends and families, our workplace, and as we see today – our officers on the street.

Responding to a suicide call where the individual is armed with a gun is one of the most dangerous and complex scenarios for a police officer. It is the reason why Huntsville Police are investing heavily in mental health awareness and training.

Our hearts and sympathies are with the Parker family as they are forced to relive this time of loss. And to Officer Darby, you have our full support. As a valued and responsible member of our force, he acted in accordance with his training. Please accord him the same presumption of innocence as all Americans are entitled.”