In the wake of a series of violent incidents involving teenagers from Dothan, Alabama, Panama City Beach Mayor Stuart Tettemer delivered a stern and heartfelt message on Friday, urging those involved to seek a better path.
WTVY News shared a video of Mayor Tettemer speaking to the troubled teens. He did not mince words.
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“Find God,” he said. “You need to turn to him; he has a better plan for you than this.”
Tettemer condemned the violence and stressed that such behavior would not be tolerated.
“Don’t bring these problems here; do not invite these problems here. The families who live here, the families who visit here won’t stand for this, and neither will we.”
The mayor’s comments came as the community grapples with a surge of violence that has sparked safety concerns among residents and visitors alike.
Authorities reported that three teenagers from Dothan, described as gang members, were arrested in connection with a shooting that took place last Saturday at Pier Park, a popular shopping and entertainment district. The incident left three people injured, prompting heightened police presence and increased vigilance throughout the area.
In a related incident, police apprehended another Dothan teen on Thursday after shots were fired near restaurants and clubs crowded with spring break visitors. Law enforcement officials have warned that additional arrests may follow as the investigation continues.
Sherri Blevins is a writer for Mountain Valley News and a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You may contact her at [email protected].
