Alabama Judge Johnny Hardwick is currently in critical condition after allegedly being shot by his own son, Khalfani A. Hardwick, in Montgomery on Saturday.

The incident, stemming from a domestic dispute, unfolded at Judge Hardwick’s residence in the afternoon, prompting a swift response from the authorities.

Following the altercation, the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office reported, “Upon arrival, deputies learned that Judge Hardwick had been assaulted, shot, and seriously injured by his son.” Khalfani Hardwick fled the scene but was later apprehended after abandoning his vehicle on Trotman Road and subsequently being located on U.S. Highway 231.

The accused, Khalfani Hardwick, faces charges of first-degree domestic violence and illegally possessing a pistol as a prohibited person.

This isn’t Khalfani’s first brush with the law; in 2014, he pleaded guilty to second-degree assault for shooting Clayton Riley, a family friend, in the head. Notably, he served no prison time for this offense.

Judge Johnny Hardwick, prior to this tragic incident, had a distinguished career serving in various capacities within the federal, state, and local levels before assuming his role in the circuit court in 2001. His recent accolades include being appointed president of the Alabama Association of Circuit Court Judges in August.

The shocking nature of the event underscores the complexities of familial relationships and the challenges faced within the criminal justice system. The community is left reeling from the news as they await updates on Judge Hardwick’s condition and the legal proceedings surrounding the case.