Pinson, Alabama, October 23, 2025
News Summary
Kimber Mills, an 18-year-old from Pinson, Alabama, tragically passed away following a shooting during a bonfire party. She was one of four injured when a fight broke out, sustaining severe injuries. Kimber was later declared brain dead and was honored with an emotional Honor Walk at UAB Hospital. The community has rallied around her family, raising funds for her burial and holding prayer vigils in her memory. The primary suspect has been charged with murder as the investigation continues.
Pinson, Alabama – Kimber Mills, an 18-year-old resident of Pinson, passed away following a tragic shooting that occurred during a party on early Sunday morning. She was one of four individuals shot when a fight broke out at the bonfire gathering. The Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office reported that deputies responded to the scene shortly before 12:30 a.m.
During the altercation, Kimber sustained serious injuries, with gunshot wounds to her head and leg. After being transported to the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) Hospital, she remained on life support until her tragic passing on Tuesday evening. Following her wishes, Kimber was an organ donor, and her family facilitated the donation process.
An emotional Honor Walk was conducted at UAB Hospital on Tuesday evening, drawing hundreds of supporters to honor Kimber’s life and legacy. Her family, including her sister Ashley and brother Michael, participated in the ceremony, which emphasized gratitude for her contributions and prayers for the medical team involved in the organ donation.
Among the attendees were other victims of the shooting, including Silas McCay, 21, who was also injured, and Levi Sanders, 18, who is currently in serious condition. The primary suspect in the shooting, Steven Tyler Whitehead, 27, has been charged with one count of murder and three counts of attempted murder, with one charge upgraded to murder after Kimber’s death.
Community support for the Mills family is evident, as a GoFundMe page established to assist with Kimber’s burial costs has raised over $20,000. Additionally, prayer vigils have been held at Cleveland High School, where Kimber was a senior cheerleader with aspirations to study nursing at the University of Alabama.
Described by her sister as friendly, sweet, and lively, Kimber had a desire to positively impact those around her. The shooting occurred near Alabama 75 and Clay-Palmerdale Road; friends rushed Kimber to the hospital after the incident, receiving help from local police. The Mills family has felt overwhelming community support, with several local businesses conducting fundraising initiatives in Kimber’s honor.
The investigation into the shooting is ongoing, and authorities are appealing for any information related to the incident. The community continues to rally around the Mills family during this challenging time, showing solidarity for a beloved member who aimed to make a difference.
Overview of the Incident
- Date of Incident: Early Sunday Morning
- Victim: Kimber Mills, 18
- Location: Pinson, Alabama
- Injuries: Gunshot wounds to the head and leg
- Community Response: Fundraising, prayer vigils, Honor Walk
- Suspect: Steven Tyler Whitehead, charged with murder and attempted murder
- Organ Donation: Yes, Kimber was an organ donor
Community Impact
The outpouring of love and support from the Pinson community highlights the lasting impact Kimber Mills has made, even in her untimely passing. Initiatives taken by local businesses and community members showcase the collective mourning and commitment to honor Kimber’s legacy.
FAQs
When did Kimber Mills pass away?
Kimber Mills passed away on Tuesday evening at 7:08 PM.
What were the circumstances of the shooting?
The shooting occurred at a bonfire party where a fight broke out, resulting in Kimber being shot.
What happened to the suspect?
Steven Tyler Whitehead, the suspect involved in the shooting, has been charged with one count of murder and three counts of attempted murder.
What is being done to honor Kimber’s legacy?
A GoFundMe page has raised over $20,000 for her burial costs, and community events like prayer vigils were held in her memory.
Did Kimber Mills have any wishes regarding organ donation?
Yes, Kimber was an organ donor, and her family facilitated the donation after her passing.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Tragic Accident Claims Life of Birmingham Woman
Birmingham Experiences Tragedy with Two Fatal Traffic Crashes
Tragic Day in Bessemer: Two Lives Lost in Traffic Accidents
Additional Resources
- AL.com: Hundreds say goodbye to Kimber Mills
- Wikipedia: Organ Donation
- WVTM 13: Kimber Mills Honor Walk
- Google Search: Kimber Mills shooting
- Live 5 News: High School Cheerleader Shot
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Murder
- WVTM 13: Kimber Mills Organ Donation
- Google News: Kimber Mills
Author: STAFF HERE BIRMINGHAM WRITER
The BIRMINGHAM STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREBirmingham.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Birmingham, Jefferson County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Sidewalk Film Festival, Sloss Music & Arts Festival, Magic City Classic, and civil rights commemorations. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Birmingham Business Alliance and the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute, plus leading businesses in healthcare, finance, and manufacturing that power the local economy such as UAB Medicine, Regions Bank, and Encompass Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREHuntsville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Alabama's dynamic landscape.
