The suspect in the Alabama bonfire shooting, which resulted in the death of a cheerleader and injuries to three others, is now facing a murder charge.
Authorities report that 18-year-old Kimber Mills was fatally shot during a bonfire event in Pinson, Alabama, on October 19. This incident occurred at a location known as The Pit. According to the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office, the suspect, identified as 27-year-old Steven Tyler Whitehead, arrived at the scene around 12:24 a.m. and discharged his firearm multiple times following a confrontation.
Initially, Whitehead faced charges of attempted murder for the injuries inflicted on three individuals. However, with the passing of Mills, the charges escalated to murder.
Kimber’s sister, Ashley Mills, confirmed the tragic news on Facebook, announcing that Kimber succumbed to her injuries on Wednesday evening. Kimber was a senior at Cleveland High School, actively participating in track and cheerleading.
Kimber Mills, who was 18, had aspirations to attend the University of Alabama in 2026. (Rylie Cirbo)
In an emotional Facebook post, Ashley Mills expressed, “Our sweet baby sister went to be with the Lord at 7:08 p.m. last night! She had the largest honor walk gathering the doctor had ever witnessed! She was deeply loved by so many. We will miss you, Kimber! Feel free to share this post wherever you deem necessary!”
Ashley Mills told AL.com that Kimber was “caught in the crossfire” when she was shot.
Silas McCay, 21, told WBRC that the suspect tried talking to Kimber before a fight broke out.
Kimber Mills, 18, was a cheerleader at Cleveland High School. (Rylie Cirbo)
“My ex-girlfriend came up to me at the party and said he was trying to do stuff to this girl named Kimber,” McCay said. “My buddy and I found him, and we started fighting him. I grabbed him and put him over my shoulder and had him on the ground. My buddy pulled me off him, and that’s when he pulled his gun out and started shooting.”
Kimber Mills had plans to attend the University of Alabama in 2026 and had hopes of becoming a nurse.
An honor walk was held on Tuesday afternoon after doctors determined her injuries were too severe, and her heart was donated to a 7-year-old, according to WVTM. Officials said she was shot in her head and leg, and taken to UAB hospital in Birmingham by a private car.
Steven Tyler Whitehead was arrested in connection to the shooting. (Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office)
Rylie Cirbo, who knew Kimber Mills, told Fox News Digital: “I’d much rather her be known for her sunshine personality and big smile rather than the tragedy.”
“I’m thankful for all the joy she’s brought my other friends,” she said. “She seemed like a very bright light in so many lives.”
