Alabama D.A. recovering after being shot by former trooper

DEMOPOLIS, Ala. (WCBI)- The District Attorney for three west Alabama counties was shot in broad daylight right outside his office Thursday.

The alleged shooter was taken down and killed by police.

District Attorney Greg Griggers was rushed to the hospital. Fortunately, he’s already been released.

Captain Jason Roberts from the State Bureau of Investigation, says Griggers was just returning from lunch when the suspect opened fire in an ambush style tactic.

The captain confirmed the shooter was a former Alabama State Trooper, by the name of Steve Smith, Jr.

Anearby law enforcement officer shot the suspect before anyone else was hurt.

Smith, Jr. was pronounced dead at the scene.

Neighboring District Attorney Michael Jackson says smith has a prior criminal history.

Smith was accused of shooting into the home of 17th Judicial Circuit Judge Eddie Hardaway with a shotgun back in 1996.

Griggers was treated for minor injuries and was released from the hospital.

Right now, there is no word of a possible motive.

Demopolis Police Tommie Reese joined in on the presser to reflect on this terrifying scene.

“I’ve known Greg Griggers probably 20 years or more and he’s been a great friend of mine. Great prosecutor. He’s done a great job in our circuit. Enemies, the job by itself details the enemies you get within the job. But otherwise beyond that, Greg is a great person in the community, well liked, well respected,” said Chief Reese.