An Alabama community is coming together in prayer after Kimber Mills, an 18-year-old senior cheerleader at Cleveland High School, was critically injured during a shooting at a weekend bonfire in Jefferson County.
Authorities say the shooting happened shortly after midnight Sunday at a wooded gathering spot known locally as “The Pit,” near Alabama 75 and Clay-Palmerdale Road.
Investigators allege that 27-year-old Steven Tyler Whitehead of Brookwood crashed the gathering where dozens of teens were present, according to latest news reports.
After he attempted to approach a girl in the group, a fight broke out and shots were fired.
Kimber, who was not involved in the fight, was struck in the head and leg.
Three other people sustained non-life-threatening injuries. Whitehead has been charged with murder and remains in the Jefferson County Jail without bond.
Kimber was rushed to UAB Hospital after friends flagged down a Trussville police officer on Gadsden Highway for help. She remains in critical condition with severe brain trauma.
In a statement shared publicly by meteorologist James Spann on Facebook, Kimber’s sister Ashley Mills said doctors told the family there were no surgeries that could save her life. She explained that Kimber was given only days to live and would become an organ donor once declared brain dead.
“She is so loved by this amazing community she has behind her,” Ashley wrote. “We are so thankful for everyone who has showed up to support her! We have had over 100 people show up to the hospital for her yesterday!”
More than 100 people gathered at the hospital Sunday to offer support, according to her family, with others joining throughout the day as the community continued to show up in large numbers. Prayer gatherings have also taken place at the Cleveland High School flagpole and football stadium.
“She’s the type of person who, if you need something, she’ll give it to you,” said classmate Kyle Torbert in an interview with WVTM 13. “If you’re sad, she’ll give you the love you need. If you need a hug, she’ll give you a hug.”
Students at a Bible study described Kimber as “a light” in their small community, someone whose smile brightened others’ days. They said they are leaning on faith and one another during this difficult time.
A prayer vigil is planned for Monday evening at 6 p.m. on the Cleveland High School football field, with attendees encouraged to wear pink — Kimber’s favorite color — as a show of solidarity and love.
View this post on Instagram
A community GoFundMe account has also been established to support Kimber and her family during this difficult time.
The Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office is continuing its investigation. Deputies were dispatched to the scene at 12:24 a.m. Sunday. Anyone with information is urged to call detectives at 205-325-1450 or Crime Stoppers at 205-254-7777.
Sherri Blevins is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You may contact her at sherri@yellowhammernews.com.
