Avantae Williams, Former Football Player, Charged With Murder
DeLand — May 3, 2024 —
Former college football player Avantae Williams has been charged with murder in connection to a fatal shooting in DeLand, Florida.The 24-year-old, who played for the university of Miami and the University of Maryland, was arrested after an incident over the weekend. Authorities have confirmed the arrest,the death of a 32-year-old man,and injuries to a bartender. To learn more about Williams’ career and the charges against him, please continue reading.
Former College Football Player Avantae Williams Charged with Murder
Ex-Miami and Maryland safety arrested in connection with a fatal shooting in DeLand, Florida.
The Arrest and Allegations
Avantae Williams, 24, a former safety for both the university of Miami Hurricanes and the university of Maryland Terrapins, was arrested monday and charged with second-degree murder. the charges stem from a shooting that occurred over the weekend in his hometown of DeLand, Florida.
DeLand Police Department confirmed the arrest in a news release, stating that Williams was taken into custody without incident. The release detailed the events leading to the arrest:
Officers from the deland Police Department and Volusia Sheriff’s Office responded to a shooting Saturday morning at a bar in DeLand… Witnesses told investigators there was a fight between several men inside the bar. During the fight, one man pulled out a firearm and started shooting.
The Victims
The shooting resulted in the death of 32-year-old Keshod Harris, also of DeLand. A bartender was also injured during the incident. Police have not released further details about the bartender’s condition.
Did You Know?
Second-degree murder,the charge against Williams,carries a notable penalty,perhaps including life imprisonment,depending on the circumstances and applicable state laws.
Williams’ College Career and Previous Legal Issues
Williams was a highly touted recruit, ranked as the No. 1 safety in the class of 2020 and an ESPN 300 prospect. His college career, though, was marked by both promise and controversy.
- University of Miami: Williams was initially dismissed from the Miami team in 2021 following an arrest on three counts of aggravated battery of a pregnant person.
- Reinstatement: the charges were later dropped, and williams was reinstated to the team after serving a six-game suspension.As reported at the time,
he was reinstated after charges were dropped, serving a six-game suspension.
- Playing Time: he played in 17 career games for the Hurricanes.
- University of Maryland: Williams transferred to Maryland for the 2023 season, were he played in four games.
Pro Tip: Understanding Legal Terminology
Aggravated Battery: In legal terms,aggravated battery typically involves intentionally causing serious bodily harm to another person or using a deadly weapon during the commission of a battery.
The Examination Continues
The DeLand Police Department is continuing its investigation into the shooting. Anyone with facts about the incident is encouraged to contact the department.
