HOOVER – No evidence, possibly including police body cam and surveillance footage, related to the shooting death of Emantic Bradford Jr. at the Riverchase Galleria on Nov. 22 will be released until the investigation into the incident is complete.

Hoover officials on Nov. 29 called on the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency, which is handling the investigation, to allow the release of information following protests.

Bradford was shot by Hoover police reportedly responding to a separate shooting at the mall during post-Thanksgiving shopping. Two other victims were injured in the initial shooting.

But in a statement released Monday, Dec. 3, Hoover Police Chief Nick Derzis said the city would comply with ALEA Secretary Hal Taylor’s request to not release evidence.

“Secretary Taylor reiterated the importance of maintaining the integrity of their investigation,” Derzis said in the release. “He has specifically asked that we do not release any potential evidence as it may not only jeopardize the integrity of the case but also complicate or delay their efforts.

“While we maintain our commitment to be fully transparent during this process, we must respect the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency’s request for full cooperation and continue to have faith in the judicial process. We want the whole truth, unimpeded and not delayed,” Derzis added.

In his letter to Derzis and Hoover Mayor Frank Brocato, Taylor said his request for confidentiality includes any information that could be relevant to the investigation, such as paper documents, records, written statements, video and audio recordings and physical evidence.

Hoover City Councilman Derrick Murphy released a separate statement, which read in part:

“This has been a difficult and impossible time for most of us—locally and nationally. Our difficulties pale in comparison to the Bradford family’s grief. I am disappointed we cannot give the Bradford family the answers they deserve faster. Please pray for the Bradford family. Please pray for our community. Please pray for those grieving privately and publicly.”