Pinson, Alabama, January 30, 2026
Steven Tyler Whitehead has been released on a $330,000 bond after being charged with intentional murder and attempted murder related to the shooting that resulted in the death of 18-year-old Kimber Mills during a bonfire gathering in Pinson. The tragic event unfolded following a physical altercation that escalated into gunfire, with Mills caught in the crossfire. Whitehead faces serious legal repercussions along with two others charged for related offenses, raising discussions about the circumstances surrounding the incident.
Pinson, Alabama – Steven Tyler Whitehead, the man charged with murder in the fatal Pinson bonfire shooting that claimed the life of 18-year-old Kimber Mills and injured three others, was released from jail on a $330,000 bond on Thursday, January 29, 2026.
Details of the Charges and Incident
Whitehead, aged 28, faces charges of intentional murder in connection with Mills’ death, along with three counts of attempted murder for the other individuals who were shot. The tragic incident occurred on Saturday, October 19, 2025, shortly after midnight, at a location known as “The Pit” in Pinson, during a bonfire gathering. Investigators reported that a verbal and physical altercation escalated, resulting in shots being fired. Reports indicate the confrontation stemmed from Whitehead attempting to engage with one of Mills’ friends, which led to a fight with the friend’s boyfriend. Kimber Mills was reportedly caught in the crossfire.
Victim’s Passing and Legacy
Kimber Mills, a senior and cheerleader at Cleveland High School, sustained critical injuries in the shooting and tragically succumbed to her wounds on Wednesday, October 22, 2025. Her family made the profound decision for her to be an organ donor, allowing her to save other lives. An honor walk, attended by over a hundred friends and family, was held at UAB Hospital as she was transported for organ donation. It was reported that a 7-year-old child received her heart.
Legal Proceedings and Bond Information
The bond for Whitehead was officially set on October 24, 2025. The total bond amount of $330,000 includes $150,000 for the murder charge and $60,000 for each of the three attempted murder charges. In November 2025, a grand jury found sufficient evidence to indict Steven Tyler Whitehead on these charges, allowing the prosecution to advance with the case. Whitehead has been appointed a public defender for his legal representation.
Additional Charges and Related Developments
Beyond the primary charges against Whitehead, two other individuals, Silas McCay and Joshua McCulloch (also identified as Hunter McCullik), were also charged with third-degree assault in connection with the incident. Both McCay and McCulloch have since posted bond and been released from jail. Videos circulating on social media allegedly show moments leading up to the shooting, depicting a group of men assaulting another individual at the bonfire, which has led to public discussions regarding the circumstances and potential claims of self-defense.
Key Features of the Pinson Bonfire Shooting Case
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Primary Suspect | Steven Tyler Whitehead |
| Victim (Deceased) | Kimber Mills, 18 years old |
| Date of Incident | October 19, 2025 |
| Location | “The Pit” in Pinson, Alabama |
| Primary Charges | Intentional Murder, 3 counts of Attempted Murder |
| Total Bond Amount | $330,000 |
| Date of Bond Release | January 29, 2026 |
| Victim’s Organ Donation | Yes, Kimber Mills was an organ donor. |
| Other Individuals Charged | Silas McCay and Joshua McCulloch (Third-Degree Assault) |
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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.
