Shots fired near Keith vs. Maplesville football game forces game to end at half
Published 10:53 pm Friday, October 17, 2025
Keith and Maplesville were battling in a regional matchup on Friday, Oct. 17 before shots were fired at a house nearby, leading to the game being canceled at the half. (File)
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By ALEC ETHEREDGE | Publisher
ORRVILLE – A sad night led to an early end to the Keith High School football game on Friday, Oct. 17, as shots fired off campus, but near the stadium led to the Bears’ matchup with Maplesville being called at the half.
Multiple shots could be heard in close proximity to the game, sending the players to the ground for cover and fans screaming in fear with uncertainty of what was happening.
Photographer Dough Horton, who was covering the game for the Selma Times-Journal, said the game was called when shots at a house next to the field rang out.
Keith High School Principal Tommy Tisdale also shared an update after the game.
“There was no shooting on the campus of Keith Middle-High School tonight,” he said. “However, there was an incident involving gunfire in the neighborhood adjacent to the school. Out of an abundance of caution, the game was halted to ensure the safety of all students and spectators. The decision to end the contest was made jointly by officials and school administration.”
Maplesville was ahead 56-0 in the game as the Red Devils continued a dominant season, but all eyes turned to the safety of everyone in a fearful moment.
Tisdale expressed his sincere gratitude to those who quickly helped secure the school from any threat.
“We extend our sincere thanks to the Dallas County Sheriff’s Office and the Maplesville Police Department for their swift response in securing the campus,” he said. “The Keith Middle-High School campus is clear, and everyone is safe. This was an isolated incident that was not connected to KMHS students or spectators in any way.”
It is unclear what led to the nearby shooting and if anyone is in custody at this time, but it was an isolated incident.
Keith fell to 3-5 in the shortened loss, while Maplesville is now 8-0 on the season.
