Birmingham Mayor William Bell has withdrawn his complaint against City Councilman Marcus Lundy after a fight at city hall left both men hospitalized with minor injuries. In a statement Wednesday evening Bell says he is withdrawing his complaint against the councilman for “the good of the city.” A warrant had been issued for Lundy’s arrest on an assault charge.
According to a police report, Bell asked Lundy to speak about a city matter during Tuesday’s city council meeting and they left for a private room. Bell says Lundy tried changing the subject to a personal matter and began cursing at the mayor. Bell tried to leave several times, but Lundy kept shutting the door. Bell says Lundy then grabbed him from behind and put the mayor in a chokehold. Two of Lundy’s aides opened the door and pulled the councilman away from the mayor. Lundy declined to give a statement to police but he contends Bell attacked him. Lundy’s assistants also declined to talk to police until they could speak with legal council.
Bell had bruising on his neck and a swollen knee. He was given a CT scan and MRI. Lundy suffered abrasions to his leg.
In a statement following Bell’s announcement, Lundy’s attorney say the councilman regrets the negative impact the incident has had on the city.