BIRMINGHAM, Ala. – A disturbing video has surfaced showing the events that led up to a tragic shooting at a bonfire in Jefferson County over the weekend. The incident resulted in the death of 18-year-old Kimber Mills, who succumbed to her injuries. Three other individuals were also injured during the violent encounter.
The video, which was sent anonymously to WBRC, captures the chaos before and during the gunfire. However, WBRC has chosen not to broadcast the footage, and the identity of the person who recorded it remains unknown. In the video, multiple gunshots can be heard as people scramble for safety. One of the victims shared with WBRC that such gatherings are common on weekends, but this is the first time there has been an outbreak of violence.
The bonfire took place near Clay-Palmerdale Road off Highway 75, at a location known locally as “the pit.” WBRC Sky Tracker footage from the area shows an open, wooded space that is often used for similar events. In the video from Saturday night, more than a dozen people are seen gathered around a bonfire with music playing. Moments later, a fight erupts. A man falls to the ground as several individuals appear to punch him. A young woman then steps in to pull others away and check on the man before several gunshots are heard, causing people to scatter.
One of the injured individuals, Silas McCay, told WBRC that he was shot multiple times. He described the events leading up to the gunfire. “My ex-girlfriend came up to me at the party and said they were trying to do stuff to this girl named Kimber,” McCay said. “Me and my buddy found him and started fighting him. I grabbed him, had him on the ground, and my buddy pulled me off. That’s when he pulled his gun out and started shooting.”
The suspect, 27-year-old Steven Whitehead, has been charged with murder in Mills’ death and three counts of attempted murder. He is scheduled to appear in court on Friday.
The gathering took place on property owned by the Alabama Department of Transportation (ALDOT). ALDOT released a statement to WBRC, saying in part: “We offer our sincerest sympathies to the victims and their families following Sunday morning’s tragedy. For several years, this property has been marked with No Trespassing signage, concrete barriers, and a fence. Any access that has been occurring is unlawful and done in a way that skirts these barriers.”
ALDOT stated that it is cooperating with investigators and that additional criminal charges may be filed.
WBRC will continue to follow this developing story and provide updates as more information becomes available.
Post a Comment