Tragic Loss: Beloved Cheerleader Fatally Shot at High School Bonfire, Celebrated for Her Spirited Legacy

A tragic incident at a party on Sunday led to the untimely death of a high school cheerleader, who succumbed to severe brain injuries from a gunshot wound.

Kimber Mills, aged 18, was shot in the early hours of Sunday in a secluded area known as The Pit in Pinson, Alabama, according to a report by AL.com. The Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office identified the suspect as 27-year-old Steven Tyler Whitehead, who allegedly arrived at the scene around 12:24 a.m. and discharged his firearm multiple times following a heated verbal and physical confrontation. WVTM reported that the shooting occurred at a bonfire gathering.

Whitehead now faces three counts of attempted murder and is currently held on a bond set at $180,000.

Ashley Mills, Kimber’s sister, shared with AL.com that neither she nor any of the attendees were familiar with Whitehead. She mentioned that Whitehead attempted to engage in conversation with one of Kimber’s friends, which led the friend to inform her boyfriend, sparking a conflict that escalated to gunfire.

“Kimber was caught in the crossfire,” Ashley Mills said.

Kimber Mills was a senior at Cleveland High School, where she was a cheerleader and also ran track. Kimber Mills’ sister said she died on Wednesday night.

“Our sweet baby sister went to be with the Lord at 7:08 p.m. last night! She has had the biggest gathering for honor walk the doc has ever seen! She was and is so loved by so many. We will miss you Kimber! Everyone is free to share this post anywhere they feel necessary!” Ashley Mills wrote on Facebook.

According to the report, Kimber Mills was planning to attend the University of Alabama in 2026 with hopes of becoming a nurse.

Ashley Mills said her sister’s injuries were too severe, adding an honor walk was held on Tuesday afternoon.

“She has too much trauma to her brain,” Ashley Mills said. “She is breathing on her own with an assisted breathing machine… We do have her on a DNR because we don’t want to hurt her anymore trying to bring her back. We’ve already got it set up for her to be an organ donor because that’s what she wanted.”

“She had a little spunk to her step,” Ashley Mills said.

Trussville Police Chief Eric Rush said Kimber Mills was shot in the head and leg and was taken to UAB Hospital in Birmingham.

Three other people were also injured in the shooting.

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.”