It was an incredibly violent year around the country. It culminated in November at Ft. Hood, Texas, when a Major allegedly went on a shooting rampage, killing more than a dozen. But, before that attack, three killing sprees here in Alabama made national news.

In March, the country watched in horror as details about a shooting in south Alabama came out. Investigators say 28 year old Michael Kenneth McLendon killed his mother, and set the house on fire. They say he then drove to Samson, where he shot more family members, then a couple of neighbors. From there, he killed a pedestrian on the side of the road, then a customer at a gas station, then drove towards the town of Geneva. By that time, police had caught up to McClendon and were chasing him around the area. One local man realized what was going on and tried to help officers. Mcclendon shot and killed him as both drove down the highway. The spree ended with a shootout with police at a metal plant in Geneva. In the end, McClendon lay dead, apparently by his own hand - along with 10 other victims. The police would later describe McClendon as a "survivalist" who stocked up on weapons and ammo before the killing. The only motive they can find was a dispute between he and some family members.

 

Just weeks later, another mass killing, this time in the Shoals. Four people were found dead at a home in Greenhill, Lauderdale County. Tammy Garner, her daughter Chelsea and two visiting relatives - Bobby and Karen Beaty were all shot to death. Investigators say Tammy Garner's husband Kevin was the killer. After several frantic hours searching for him, police finally put the puzzle together. They believe Kevin Garner killed the four at some point in the overnight hours of April 7th..  then drove back to his home in Priceville, set his home and car on fire, went into the back woods behind the property and killed himself. The reason, they say, was a nasty divorce. Both Garners were due in court the next day.

And in July - another horrifying mass killing, This time one that claimed six lives from Huntsville to Fayetteville. Jacob Levi Shaffer is accused of killing his wife, her father and brother, the couple's step son and one of the step-son's friends. Investigators believe the killing started in Huntsville with a man who worked at his father in law's business.  After that, investigators say Shaffer got a ride to Lincoln County, Tennessee, where he attacked the others. The victims were stabbed so violently, police would later testify that the knife's blade was bent 90 degrees off the handle. Police believe that Shaffer's four year old daughter may have witnessed the whole thing. The first deputy to arrive on the scene testified Shaffer admitted to the killing - saying he did it because his wife was cheating on him. Sheriff Murray Blackwelder  says so far, Shaffer has expressed no remorse for the crimes