At a news conference on the Saturday night shootout in downtown Montgomery that left two people dead and 12 others wounded, Montgomery Mayor Steven Reed pushed back on criticism from Alabama Attorney General Steve Marshall about the city’s response to violent crime.

Marshall, who is running for U.S. Senate, said Montgomery officials do not admit the capital city is facing what he called a crisis.

“Though the blame lies with those who carelessly pulled the triggers, I continue to be troubled by the city leadership’s stubborn refusal to acknowledge that they have a serious problem,” Marshall said.

Reed, who was asked about Marshall’s statement, said it shows a lack of awareness about efforts the city is making.

“If the attorney general ever wants to talk with me about what we’re do

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