Perkins’ shooting death by a Decatur police officer remains a lightning rod for civil rights activists and community members desperate for a change in leadership.
DECATUR, Ala. — On the night of September 29, 2023, Decatur resident Steve Perkins was shot and killed by then-police officer Mac Marquette. The incident, which took place in the midst of a towing dispute taking place outside Perkins’ residence, marked a turning point in relations between the city’s residents, its leaders, and the police department as a whole.
Sunday marks one year since Perkins’ death: a somber anniversary marked with pauses for reflection and an examination of progress that has, or has not, been made.
While Marquette awaits trial for murder, civil rights activists have demanded changes within the police department, as well as the city council. They have repeatedly called for the resignation of Mayor Tab Bowling – who is set to retire next year, and who has said he has no plans to …