Anniston, Alabama — The Anniston Police Department (APD), in coordination with Regional Medical Center (RMC), is issuing this joint statement to provide accurate information regarding several separate incidents that occurred on or around February 7, 2026. Recent misinformation shared through social media and other outlets has incorrectly combined unrelated events, creating confusion within the community. This release is intended to clarify the facts, distinguish each incident independently, and address public concerns with verified information.

First, the Anniston Police Department continues to investigate an incident that occurred on Keith Avenue on February 7. As is standard practice, certain details cannot be released while the case remains active in Anniston.

Separate from that matter, officers responded at approximately 4:18 a.m. on February 7 to the 1400 block of Gurnee Avenue regarding a reported sexual assault. Following an extensive investigation, a warrant was approved by the Calhoun County District Attorney’s Office, and Garrick Woods (52), of Anniston, was arrested on February 11 on charges of first-degree rape and first-degree kidnapping. This arrest stems solely from the Gurnee Avenue incident and is not connected to the Keith Avenue investigation, despite earlier rumors that incorrectly combined the two matters.

Additionally, Regional Medical Center confirms that a temporary Emergency Room (ER) security lockdown occurred on February 7 when an individual from outside RMC’s regional service area and outside the police jurisdiction of the City of Anniston arrived at the ER seeking medical treatment and reported an alleged physical assault. The lockdown applied only to the Emergency Room and was implemented as a standard safety and privacy protocol commonly used by hospitals in these circumstances. Neither the Keith Avenue investigation nor the Gurnee Avenue case prompted this security measure.

APD and RMC also want to acknowledge that, while the initial February 8 communication addressed rumors circulating at that time, certain investigative details could not be publicly disclosed without risking the integrity of an active criminal investigation. Law enforcement must balance transparency with the responsibility to protect victims, preserve evidence, and ensure successful prosecution. Premature release of investigative information could have jeopardized the arrest that ultimately occurred on February 11. Protecting the pursuit of justice must always take precedence over speculation.

Both agencies are aware of social media posts and commentary that inaccurately suggested multiple related assaults or an ongoing threat near the hospital. RMC leadership has confirmed that an employee who shared information online acknowledged the statements were based on unverified rumors and has since been counseled regarding appropriate communication standards. APD and RMC emphasize that sharing speculative or unverified information can create unnecessary fear and may interfere with active investigations.

The Anniston Police Department and Regional Medical Center remain committed to transparency, public safety, and responsible communication. Residents are encouraged to rely on verified updates released through official channels and to avoid spreading unconfirmed claims. Anyone with information that may assist investigators is encouraged to contact APD by calling 911 for emergencies, 256-238-1800 for non-emergencies, or 256-240-4000 for the Investigative Division. Further updates will be provided if and when verified information becomes available.