Mobile Police Lieutenant Recovering After Being Shot While Responding to Call That Led To Standoff

Mobile, AL (BuzzReport) — A routine call for service turned into a harrowing ordeal Sunday morning when a Mobile Police officer was shot while responding to reports of gunfire in a residential neighborhood.

Shortly before 10:00 a.m. on January 4, officers were dispatched to the 100 block of Tuscaloosa Street following reports of shots fired. As officers arrived at the scene, two individuals inside a home opened fire, striking one officer.

The wounded officer was rushed to a local hospital, where he underwent emergency surgery for injuries sustained near his abdomen. As of Monday, authorities say he remains hospitalized but is in stable condition and showing signs of improvement.

After ensuring that family members had been notified, the Mobile Police Department released the officer’s identity: Lt. Lorenzo Matthews, a 26-year veteran of the department who currently serves in the 3rd Precinct.

Police Chief William Jackson praised Lt. Matthews’ service and professionalism, while underscoring the dangers officers face in the line of duty.

“Lt. Matthews is a well-trained officer, and while responding to a call for service, came under fire,” Chief Jackson said. “This is a tough reminder of the risks my officers face each and every day while protecting the community. Lt. Matthews has a long road ahead, but he’s expected to recover. However, that in no way takes away from the severity of his injuries and the healing needed to move forward.”

Chief Jackson also asked the community to keep Lt. Matthews, his family, and the entire Mobile Police Department in their thoughts and prayers as the investigation continues and the officer begins his recovery.

The incident has sent shockwaves through the department and the surrounding community, highlighting once again the unpredictable and dangerous nature of police work—and the courage of those who answer the call to serve.