President Donald Trump on Tuesday announced the U.S. Space Command headquarters would relocate from Colorado Springs, Colorado, to Huntsville, Alabama.
In 2018, Trump signed an executive order reestablishing the space command during his first term. In 2023, former President Joe Biden decided to keep the headquarters in Colorado, where it was temporarily located.
Trump’s announcement Tuesday officially reversed Biden’s decision and is consistent with his original plan.
“The U.S. Space Command HQ will move to the beautiful locale of a place called Huntsville, Alabama, forever to be known from this point forward as Rocket City,” Trump said in a press conference.
President Donald Trump speaks about the relocation of U.S. Space Command headquarters from Colorado to Alabama in the Oval Office of the White House, Tuesday, Sept. 2, 2025, in Washington. | Mark Schiefelbein
The decision was criticized by Democrats, who say it will be costly to relocate the headquarters and puts jobs in jeopardy in Colorado.
Trump said Tuesday that Colorado’s use of mail-in voting was a “big factor” for why the change was happening. Alabama allows absentee ballots that can be requested and returned by mail.
Alabama, which voted in favor of Trump in all three of the elections he ran in, celebrated the decision with its congressional delegation joining Trump in the Oval Office for the announcement. The relocation is expected to bring jobs and investment to Huntsville’s Redstone Arsenal.
“We had a lot of competition for this and Alabama’s getting it,” Trump said, acknowledging the state’s leaders flanking him on either side.
The Air Force had previously said Redstone was the preferred location for the headquarters, but officials said new construction would have to happen in Alabama to support the operations already underway in Colorado. The Biden administration opted instead to overturn Trump’s decision and keep operations where they were.
Colorado Attorney General Phil Weiser said in a statement Tuesday that Trump was playing “political games” with the military’s readiness and their families.
“Moving Space Command Headquarters to Alabama is not only wrong for our national defense, but it’s harmful to hundreds of Space Command personnel and their families,” Weiser said.
In this Aug. 29, 2019, file photo, President Donald Trump, left, watches with Vice President Mike Pence and Defense Secretary Mark Esper as the flag for U.S. space Command is unfurled as Trump announces the establishment of the U.S. Space Command in the Rose Garden of the White House in Washington. President Joe Biden has decided to keep U.S. Space Command headquarters in Colorado, overturning a last-ditch decision by the Trump administration to move it to Alabama and ending months of politically fueled debate, according to senior U.S. officials | Carolyn Kaster
Weiser said his office had been preparing for Trump to make this announcement and is ready to challenge it in court.
Trump’s announcement Tuesday was his first televised remarks in a week, since a three-hour Cabinet meeting last Tuesday.
After several days with no public appearances, there was speculation online about the president’s health. He noted during the press conference that he had an “active” weekend by golfing, posting online and doing an hourlong interview with an outlet.
Donald Trump made his first public appearance in a week on Tuesday to announce that the US Space Command (Spacecom) headquarters, which is tasked with leading national security operations in space, would be in the Republican stronghold of Alabama.
Flanked by Republican senators and members of Congress at a White House news conference, Trump said Huntsville, Alabama, would be the new location of the space command. The move reverses a Biden administration decision to put the facility at its current temporary headquarters in Democratic-leaning Colorado.
“The US Space Command headquarters will move to the beautiful locale of a place called Huntsville, Alabama, forever to be known from this point forward as Rocket City,” Trump said. “We had a lot of competition but Alabama’s getting it.”
The move would result in more than 30,000 new jobs and bring hundreds of billions of dollars to Alabama, a state which voted for Trump “by about 47 points”, the president said.
“They fought harder for it than anyone else,” Trump claimed, before adding that Colorado’s decision to allow mail-in voting was “corrupt”.
“The problem I have with Colorado, one of the big problems, [is that] they do mail-in voting,” he said. “So they have automatically crooked elections and we can’t have that. When a state is for mail-in voting, that means they want dishonest elections. So that played a big factor.”
Huntsville is already home to the US Army Space and Missile Defense Command, Nasa’s Marshall Space Flight center and the 38,000-acre Redstone Arsenal. The city was identified by the US air force as its preferred site for Space Command in 2021 as it would be a cost-effective option. A report from the Government Accountability Office (GAO) later found that the air force’s decision-making process had “significant shortfalls in its transparency and credibility”.
Two years later, in 2023, Biden overturned those plans to relocate to Alabama. Instead, Biden chose to make the then temporary Colorado Springs location permanent, taking a recommendation from Gen James Dickinson, the former head of Space Command. Dickinson reportedly said relocating to Alabama could jeopardize military readiness as making the headquarters fully operational would take time.
“For FOUR YEARS, I have fought to get U.S. Space Command moved to its SELECTED home at Redstone Arsenal in Huntsville, Alabama,” Senator Tommy Tuberville wrote alongside a video statement after Trump’s announcement. “Thank you, President Trump and Secretary [Pete] Hegseth, for reversing Joe Biden’s political cronyism and restoring MERIT and INTEGRITY to this process.”
Tuberville lambasted Biden’s 2023 decision to keep Spacecom in Colorado Springs in his video and said the former president let the “nation’s security [take] a backseat to politics” and “caved” to “woke politics” at the time. He then thanked Trump for “restoring merit and integrity” to space exploration and alleged the move would save taxpayers $480m.
Trump’s announcement of a change of course followed days of fevered online speculation about his health, fueled by his absence from the public eye since last week.
Asked if he was aware that there had been 1.3m social media engagements as of Saturday morning speculating on his possible “demise”, Trump countered that he had held several news conferences in the past week and pointed to some “pretty poignant” posts he had made on his Truth Social platform.
“I did numerous news conferences, all successful. They went very well, like this is going very well. And then I didn’t do any for two days, and they said ‘there must be something wrong with him,’” he said.
“Biden wouldn’t do them for months, you wouldn’t see him, and nobody ever said there was ever anything wrong with him – and we know he wasn’t in the greatest of shape. It’s all fake news.”
Speculation about Trump’s health has recently intensified. Some of the fervor has been spurred by a White House disclosure that he was diagnosed with chronic venous insufficiency, a condition involving damage to the veins in the arms and legs. There has also been viral pictures showing Trump with swollen ankles and bruising on his hands.
Elsewhere in his announcement, Trump indicated that he had decided to send armed troops into Chicago, allegedly to fight crime. Such a move is against the will of JB Pritzker, the governor of Illinois, and follows the recent controversial deployment of national guard forces in Washington on the same purported basis.
“We’re going in,” he said, calling Chicago and Baltimore – another Democratic-run city – “hellholes”.
He said the deployment of national guard troops in Washington DC had “served as a template,” adding: “I’m very proud of Washington. [It’s] a safe zone.”
Robert Roberson, theTexas death row inmate believed by many to be innocent, did not die as scheduled Thursday night. Despite a handful of challenges from a state that seemed intent on killing him, the Texas Supreme Court granted a last-minute stay of execution for the East Texas man who has spent more than two decades awaiting lethal injection…
Huntsville, Alabama, is affectionately known as the “Rocket City” for its close association with U.S. space missions. Its downtown area is a neighborhood showcasing a vibrant mix of nightlife and attractions that make the dynamic area a great place to spend a night out on the town. So whether you are a Huntsville native or a prospective resident looking to explore the pros and cons of living in the area, here’s a guide with attractions curated by our local experts to help you discover the best things to do that make downtown Huntsville a must-visit destination for a spectacular night out.
Interested in moving to Huntsville, AL? Check out:
Need a little caffeine to kickstart your night out in downtown Huntsville? Below are some options recommended by our local experts that are sure to impress:
Photo courtesy of Megan Lee
Revivalist: This downtown coffee shop redefines your coffee experience with its artisanal approach to brewing. They meticulously source their beans and use innovative techniques to create exceptional flavors, from bold espressos to smooth pour-overs. With a chic, inviting ambiance and a dedication to quality, Revivalist is the perfect spot to enjoy a refined coffee experience and connect with fellow enthusiasts.
The Bottle: This local coffee shop is a favorite among residents and visitors alike. Known for its artisanal coffee and comfortable ambiance, The Bottle is a superb spot to relax with a cup of joe or to catch up with friends. While it serves as a coffee shop by day, The Bottle transforms into a chic bar in the evening. It’s an excellent place to enjoy cocktails in a relaxed, stylish setting.
For a detailed guide of the best coffee shops in Huntsville, AL, check out these recommendations from Coffeespots: “Huntsville’s coffee scene is a vibrant mix of cozy cafes and trendy roasteries. In this guide, we curate the city’s top coffee spots where you can find the best coffee and liveliest local communities.” – Gonçalo Salgado from Coffeespots
Explore Huntsville’s finest food and drink options
No night out is complete without good eats and a beverage to satisfy your taste buds. Check out some of our experts top recommended restaurants and bars:
Delectable dining:
Purveyor: If you’re looking for a sophisticated dining experience, Purveyor is the place to be. Known for its upscale American cuisine, this restaurant provides a refined atmosphere perfect for a dinner date or a special celebration. Takara Swoopes, editor in chief of Huntsville Magazine gave us insight into some of the establishments best highlights:
“One of my favorite spots in Downtown Huntsville is the late-night piano bar at Purveyor restaurant. It’s open late, the live music is top-notch, and the food is incredible. Highly recommended for visitors and locals alike.”
Mazzara’s Vinoteca: This elegant establishment is a refined destination for wine lovers and food enthusiasts, and offers a curated selection of fine wines and a menu featuring Italian-inspired dishes made with fresh, local ingredients. Take a look at our local experts’ tips for making the most of this exceptional dining experience:
“You need to go to Mazzara’s Vinoteca for the best dinner in town. I recommend the mussels and focaccia as an appetizer and the steak for your main course. The restaurant is housed in a super cool building with a ton of history. Mazzara’s consistently delivers attentive service and high-quality dishes. Perfect for any birthday, celebration, date night, or just an excellent dinner.” – Forrest Webber Owner of Homely Huntsville
Photo courtesy of Edith Parten
“My must-eat recommendation is Mazzara’s Italian Restaurant. It’s off the beaten path — just off the square — housed in the quaint, historic Humphrey’s-Rodgers House built in the mid-1800s. Savor pasta dishes, seafood, charcuterie boards, yummy salads like watermelon and pea shoot salad, and mouth-watering desserts, while taking in the atmosphere of the historic house. From the creaky wood floors to the cozy bar, (they only serve wine and beer) the savory dishes to the personable staff, it’s an experience dining there. There are also a few tables on the outdoor patio for alfresco dining.
Pro tip: Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends.” – Edith Parten from Everyday Edith
Metro Diner: While slightly outside the downtown area, Metro is a beloved eatery known for its hearty, comfort-food classics and welcoming atmosphere. The diner’s menu features everything from indulgent breakfasts and burgers to satisfying sandwiches and fresh salads. With its retro charm and friendly service, Metro Diner is a great spot for a casual meal any time of day.
Photo courtesy of Megan Lee
The Cozy Cow: After dinner or a few drinks, make sure to stop by Cozy Cow ice cream. This delightful spot offers a range of homemade ice cream flavors that are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. The cozy, welcoming environment makes it a perfect place to enjoy a sweet nightcap.
Drinks and more:
Campus 805: For those who appreciate a good brew, Campus 805 is a must-visit. This popular craft brewery offers a range of unique and flavorful beers brewed on-site. The relaxed atmosphere and friendly staff make it a great spot to unwind after a day of exploring. Jason Will from Blueprint Realty clued us into what makes Campus 805 a must-visit destination:
“I love Campus 805! Once a historic school, this spot has been transformed into a popular hub of activity in downtown Huntsville, AL. As a local favorite, it’s known for its eclectic mix of craft breweries, unique eateries, and lively entertainment venues. This revitalized space not only preserves the area’s rich history but also fosters a sense of community with its regular events and gatherings. Whether you’re looking to enjoy a local brew, savor diverse culinary delights, or catch live music, Campus 805 offers something for everyone. It’s a testament to Huntsville’s eclectic spirit and a must-do for those looking for a more unique ‘night out’ experience.”
Photo courtesy of Susie Burleson
Voodoo Lounge: Home to an eclectic drink menu, patrons at Voodoo can enjoy a variety of craft cocktails, including creative house specials and classic favorites. The bar also features a selection of local and international beers, along with an impressive array of spirits. With its energetic vibe and expertly crafted drinks, Voodoo Lounge is an ideal spot for a fun night out with friends or a lively evening on the town.
Rocket City Dog Bar: This local gem is a vibrant and unique spot where dog lovers and craft beer enthusiasts can enjoy a great time. The bar features a welcoming outdoor space for pets to play while their owners sip on a diverse selection of local brews and cocktails. Maya Storry from Rocket City Dog Bar shared the following about the best dog-friendly options in the area:
“Downtown Huntsville dog owners love our bar for off-leash play, a beer, and events like trivia and live music. Our neighbors at Innerspace Brewing and Yellowhammer Brewing also offer dog-friendly on-leash patios, great people, and pizza. For a medium walk, the views from Domaine South’s patio next to Big Spring Park can’t be beat.”
If none of the above options tickle your fancy, Krista M. Prince, owner of Krista Suzanne Photography, has some great tips for where else to grab food and drinks: “For dining, I always recommend Sam and Greg’s. For a night out with the girls, Stella’s, Bark and Able, and Rhythm on Monroe are fantastic options.”
Take a dive into Huntsville’s art and culture scene
Looking to experience the eclectic side of the city? Our experts have clued us into the best spots to enjoy local art and get a taste of the culture:
Photo courtesy of Zalfa Imani
Huntsville Museum of Art: A short walk from downtown, The Huntsville Museum of Art is a cultural gem showcasing a diverse collection of American art. With rotating exhibitions and a variety of educational programs, it’s well worth visiting. The museum features a variety of permanent collections that highlight both historical and contemporary works.
The Von Braun Center: This multi-purpose venue hosts various events throughout the year, including art shows, concerts, and theatrical performances. With its spacious arenas and versatile event halls, it accommodates diverse activities and large audiences. The center’s modern facilities and excellent acoustics enhance every event experience, making it a key location for entertainment and community gatherings in Huntsville.
Lowe Mill ARTS & Entertainment: This former cotton mill has been transformed into a vibrant arts center. It houses numerous artist studios and galleries, offering a rich selection of contemporary artworks. Regular events and exhibitions make it a cultural hub in downtown Huntsville.
“I moved here during the era of Covid in 2020 so I’ve only been a resident of Huntsville for about four years. Upon arriving at Huntsville I had asked the question “What does Huntsville have to offer that I have yet to experience?” The responses I was given were spot on! Lowe Mill is about as unique as they come. What an incredible experience to watch artists and artisans hard at their craft. Their products are also sold there so you can really watch the process from beginning to end.” Jason Jones, managing partner at Metro Diner
Photo courtesy of Craig Adderley
Downtown Art Walks: If you’re looking to immerse yourself in the local art scene, be sure to check out the Downtown Art Walks. These events showcase local artists and their work, turning downtown into a lively open-air gallery. Cindy Shaver from Cindy Shaver Photography shared with us what makes this event so special:
“While downtown Huntsville is a great area for unique shops, bars and coffee shops, my favorite event is the summer’s Art Walks. This event takes place on either a Friday or Saturday each month. Vendors populate the square with booths featuring art, decorations, crafts, and foods. This is a great opportunity to visit shops on the square while supporting other small business owners who participate in the event.”
Spend some time outdoors taking in Huntsville’s natural beauty
One of downtown Huntsville’s best attractions is its incredible outdoor scenery. Strolling through the area’s stunning parks and landscapes is a great thing to do downtown, and if you’re lucky you’ll be able to experience one of the many events that take place outdoors!
Big Spring International Park: Located in the heart of downtown, Big Spring Park offers a scenic escape from the city hustle. The park’s picturesque surroundings and ambiance make it an ideal spot for a leisurely walk during the evening hours. Below our experts have detailed their favorite things about the park:
“Big Spring Park is another local attraction that I adore. There are so many koi, ducks, and ducklings to feed and watch that you are guaranteed to have something to admire at all times (including the beautiful scenery)!” Jason Jones, managing partner at Metro Diner
“I absolutely love the downtown Huntsville area! I often visit various spots there to capture stunning engagement photos for my couples. Some of my favorites include the new City Hall on the iconic square and Big Spring Park. As a Huntsville native, I have countless memories in Big Spring Park, especially from the Concerts in the Park. My favorite recent memory, however, is seeing the park through my 2-year-old nephew’s eyes — we got ice cream at Cozy Cow and fed the fish!” Krista M. Prince, owner of Krista Suzanne Photography
While the park gets its name from the Big Spring, the spring itself is tucked away in the corner of the park. The Indian Creek Canal, the first canal in the state of Alabama, is much harder to miss as it runs through the park, and is a great sight to see while visiting the area.
Green Street Market: This vibrant market is a great place to explore local produce, crafts, and other unique goods during the summer months. It’s not just a market; it’s an experience, often featuring live music and food trucks that add to the lively atmosphere. Cindy Shaver from Cindy Shaver Photography recommended this event as well, sharing that this free event is on Thursday’s and is “A much smaller event that includes a small selection of produce in the form of a farmer’s market”.
Looking for more unique things to do? Below are some additional experiences to add extra spice to your night out downtown:
Mars Music Hall: This premier venue is located inside of the Von Braun Center, but features an intimate setting, excellent acoustics and a variety of performances from local acts to renowned artists. The venue’s stylish design and stellar lineup create a memorable experience for music lovers, making it a top choice for a lively and enjoyable evening in downtown Huntsville.
Steve’s Billiard Lounge: Located just south of downtown, Steve’s is a go-to spot for a casual, fun night out. The lounge features high-quality, well-maintained pool tables in a comfortable, stylish setting. With ample space for both casual players and serious competitors, it’s a great spot to enjoy a game or two with friends. The relaxed atmosphere and friendly patrons make it an ideal place to unwind, socialize, and showcase your billiards skills.
Rocket City Apparel: For those looking to take home a piece of Huntsville, Rocket City Apparel is a must-visit shop. It offers a variety of stylish, locally themed clothing and accessories, perfect for remembering your visit or gifting to friends. Its trendy designs and unique offerings make it a fun stop during your downtown evening stroll.
Concluding your night out in downtown Huntsville, AL
Downtown Huntsville is a lively and engaging area that offers a large variety of unique things to do. From upscale dining at Purveyor to the eclectic vibe of Campus 805 Brewery, the area caters to all tastes. So savor homemade ice cream at Cozy Cow, catch some live music at Mars Music Hall, and stroll through Big Springs International Park for a memorable outing. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, exploring these highlights will give you a taste of what makes downtown Huntsville a fantastic place for a night out.
The Huntsville Museum of Art features a diverse collection of visual arts, while cultural institutions like the U.S. Veterans Memorial Museum honor the nation’s military history and add to the city’s vibrant arts and culture scene. With theaters, galleries, and events throughout the year, Huntsville’s dynamic cultural offerings reflect a deep commitment to artistic exploration. This makes the city a destination where residents and visitors can engage with various creative expressions and historical narratives.
Looking for the must-try restaurants in Huntsville, AL? Look no further than this Redfin article. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, Huntsville has a diverse culinary scene that is sure to satisfy any craving. From American classics at Commerce Kitchen to mouth-watering gelato at Sam & Gregs Gelato Cafe, there’s something for everyone. So get ready to embark on a culinary adventure and discover your new favorite spot in town.
Jeremy Poland via Getty Images
1. Commerce Kitchen
Cuisine Type: American Restaurant Location: 300 Franklin St SE, Huntsville, AL 35801 Website:Commerce Kitchen
Commerce Kitchen is an American restaurant. They offer a diverse menu with a variety of American dishes, including burgers, sandwiches, and salads. With a cozy and inviting atmosphere, it’s a great place to enjoy a delicious meal with friends and family.
Sam & Gregs Gelato Cafe is a popular pizzeria. In addition to their delicious pizzas, they also offer a wide selection of gelato flavors for dessert. Whether you’re in the mood for a classic Margherita pizza or a unique gelato flavor, Sam & Gregs is the place to go.
3. The Poppy and Parliament
Cuisine Type: English Restaurant Location: 117 Northside Sq, Huntsville, AL 35801 Website:The Poppy and Parliament
The Poppy and Parliament is an English restaurant. They specialize in traditional English dishes such as fish and chips, shepherd’s pie, and bangers and mash. With its charming decor and authentic cuisine, The Poppy and Parliament offers a taste of England in the heart of Huntsville.
4. Big Oh’s
Cuisine Type: Korean Restaurant Location: 121 Northside Sq, Huntsville, AL 35801 Website:Big Oh’s
Big Oh’s is a Korean restaurant serving a variety of traditional Korean dishes, including bibimbap, bulgogi, and kimchi. With its flavorful and spicy cuisine, Big Oh’s is a must-visit for anyone craving authentic Korean flavors.
Cotton Row Restaurant is a Southern food restaurant. They offer a menu inspired by traditional Southern cuisine, featuring dishes like fried chicken, shrimp and grits, and collard greens. With its warm and welcoming atmosphere, Cotton Row Restaurant provides a taste of Southern hospitality.
6. Cajun Steamer Bar & Grill
Cuisine Type: Bar, Cajun and Creole Restaurant Location: 301 Pelham Ave SW Ste C1, Huntsville, AL 35801 Website:Cajun Steamer Bar & Grill
Cajun Steamer Bar & Grill is a lively restaurant specializing in Cajun and Creole cuisine. Their menu features classic dishes like gumbo, jambalaya, and crawfish étouffée. With its vibrant atmosphere and flavorful dishes, Cajun Steamer Bar & Grill brings the taste of Louisiana to Huntsville.
7. Pane E Vino Pizzeria
Cuisine Type: Pizzeria Location: 300 Church St SW, Huntsville, AL 35801 Website:Pane E Vino Pizzeria
Pane E Vino Pizzeria is a charming pizzeria offering a variety of traditional Italian pizzas, made with fresh ingredients and cooked in a wood-fired oven. With its cozy atmosphere and authentic flavors, Pane E Vino Pizzeria is a favorite among pizza lovers.
8. The Bottle
Cuisine Type: French Restaurant, New American Restaurant Location: 101 Washington St NE, Huntsville, AL 35801 Website:The Bottle
The Bottle is a unique restaurant combining French and New American cuisine. Their menu features a fusion of flavors, with dishes like duck confit, steak frites, and shrimp and grits. With its elegant ambiance and innovative dishes, The Bottle offers a dining experience like no other.
9. Dallas Mill Deli
Cuisine Type: Burger Joint, Deli, Sandwich Spot Location: 500 Pratt Ave NW, Huntsville, AL 35801 Website:Dallas Mill Deli
Dallas Mill Deli is a popular spot in Huntsville known for its delicious burgers, deli sandwiches, and wraps. They offer a wide variety of options, including vegetarian and gluten-free choices. With its casual and friendly atmosphere, Dallas Mill Deli is a great place to grab a quick and tasty meal.
Earth and Stone Wood Fired Pizza is a popular pizzeria. They specialize in wood-fired pizzas made with fresh ingredients and unique flavor combinations. With its rustic and cozy atmosphere, Earth and Stone Wood Fired Pizza is a go-to spot for pizza enthusiasts.
Baumhower’s Victory Grille – Huntsville is a popular American restaurant. They offer a diverse menu with a range of American classics, including burgers, wings, and seafood. With its sports-themed decor and delicious food, Baumhower’s Victory Grille is a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
12. Ted’s Bar-B-Q
Cuisine Type: BBQ Joint Location: 212 Andrew Jackson Way NE, Huntsville, AL 35801 Website:Ted’s Bar-B-Q
Ted’s Bar-B-Q is a beloved BBQ joint known for their mouth-watering barbecue dishes, including ribs, pulled pork, and smoked chicken. With its casual and laid-back atmosphere, Ted’s Bar-B-Q is the perfect place to satisfy your barbecue cravings.
13. Rock N Roll Sushi
Cuisine Type: Sushi Restaurant Location: 2500 Clinton Ave W Ste B, Huntsville, AL 35805 Website:Rock N Roll Sushi
Rock N Roll Sushi is a trendy sushi restaurant. They offer a wide variety of sushi rolls, including both traditional and creative options. With its vibrant atmosphere and delicious sushi, Rock N Roll Sushi is a favorite among sushi enthusiasts.
14. Farm Burger Huntsville
Cuisine Type: Burger Joint Location: 930 Bob Wallace Ave SW # 219, Huntsville, AL 35801 Website:Farm Burger Huntsville
Farm Burger Huntsville is a farm-to-table burger joint. They pride themselves on using locally sourced ingredients to create their delicious burgers. With its focus on sustainability and quality, Farm Burger Huntsville offers a unique dining experience for burger lovers.
HOUSTON (AP) — A Texas inmate is facing scheduled execution Tuesday evening for fatally stabbing his estranged wife and drowning her 6-year-old daughter in a bathtub nearly 14 years ago.
Gary Green, 51, is set to receive a lethal injection for the September 2009 deaths of Lovetta Armstead, 32, and her daughter, Jazzmen Montgomery, at their home in Dallas.
The girl’s father, Ray Montgomery, said he is not cheering for Green’s execution but sees it as the justice system at work.
“It’s justice for the way my daughter was tortured. It’s justice for the way that Lovetta was murdered,” Montgomery said.
As of late Tuesday morning, Green’s attorneys had not filed any appeals seeking to stop his execution at the state penitentiary in Huntsville, Texas. His attorney did not return several calls and emails seeking comment.
In prior appeals, Green’s attorneys claimed he was intellectually disabled and has had a lifelong history of psychiatric disorders.
“These impairments likely rendered (Green) unable to form the requisite intent to commit capital murder,” Green’s attorneys wrote in 2018.
Those appeals were rejected by the U.S. Supreme Court and lower appeals courts.
The high court has prohibited the death penalty for the intellectually disabled, but not for people with serious mental illness.
Authorities said Green killed the two after Armstead sought to annul their marriage.
On the day of the killings, Armstead had written two letters to Green, telling him that although she loved him, she had “to do what’s best for me.”
In his own letter, which was angry and rambling, Green expressed the belief that Armstead and her children were involved in a plot against him.
“You asked to see the monster so here he is the monster you made me … They will be 5 lives taken today me being the 5th,” Green wrote.
Armstead was stabbed more than two dozen times while Green drowned Jazzmen in the home’s bathtub.
Authorities said Green also intended to kill Armstead’s two other children, then 9-year-old Jerrett and 12-year-old Jerome. Green stabbed the younger boy but both survived.
“Told (Green) because we’re too little to die and we won’t tell anybody about it,” the 9-year-old told jurors in testimony about how he convinced Green to spare their lives.
Josh Healy, one of the prosecutors with the Dallas County District Attorney’s Office that convicted Green, said the boys were incredibly brave.
Green “was an evil guy. It was one of the worst cases I’ve ever been a part of,” said Healy, who is now a defense attorney in Dallas.
Montgomery said he still has a close relationship with Armstead’s two sons. He said both lead productive lives and one has a daughter who looks like Jazzmen.
“They still suffer a lot I think,” said Montgomery, who is a special education English teacher.
In recent years, Montgomery and Jerome Armstead have participated in domestic violence seminars. Montgomery said he’s tried to help other people recognize the signs of domestic violence, signs he didn’t see before Lovetta Armstead and his daughter were killed.
“Just being able to go out and help and spread awareness has been like therapy to me,” he said.
Montgomery, who is a deacon at his church in Dallas, said he’s continued to live his life like his daughter is still here, including throwing her a party every birthday. He also had a high school graduation party for her, including a parade at her gravesite and a backyard barbecue with family.
“That was my way of dealing with it, to make it feel like she’s still here. I prayed over her grave one day and I told her I would never let her name die down,” Montgomery said.
Green’s execution is the first of two scheduled in Texas this week. Another inmate, Arthur Brown Jr., is set to be executed Thursday.
Green would be the fourth inmate in Texas and the eighth in the U.S. put to death this year.
Green is one of six Texas death row inmates who are part of a lawsuit seeking to stop the state’s prison system from using what they allege are expired and unsafe execution drugs. Despite a civil court judge in Austin preliminarily agreeing with the claims, three of the inmates have been executed this year. ___ Follow Juan A. Lozano on Twitter at https://twitter.com/juanlozano70.
HUNTSVILLE, Ala. (WAFF) – The home of the Marshall Space Flight Center’s administrative headquarters was demolished on Saturday morning.
Building 4200 was the administrative headquarters for 63 years seeing incredible feats accomplished in NASA’s history. The Marshall Space Flight Center has played an unprecedented role in space exploration with the development of the Saturn V rocket that propelled the Apollo missions to the Moon.
Other projects included engines and propulsion hardware for the space shuttle program, science communications for the International Space Station and management of the Space Launch System.
The first employees at the flight center began moving into the building in June 1963 after it was built by Electronic and Missile Facilities Inc. of Valley Stream, New York. On top of being home for the Research Projects Division, Aeroballistics Division, Future Projects and the Launch Operations Directorate, there was a barber shop, library, cafeteria and other services in Building 4200.
Building 4200 which was demolished Saturday morning was the former headquarters of the MSFC.
Many well-known figures toured the building including First Lady Claudia “Lady Bird” Johnson and General Chuck Yeager.
Marshall Space Flight Center’s historical preservation officer, Scott Worley, said it best with the demolition of the building.
“Buildings come down,” Worley said in a statement. “But rockets keep going up. Our work lies beyond the sky.”
Watch the implosion in the video at the top of this story.
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