In a tragic turn of events, Avantae Traeviyon Williams, a former college football standout, has been charged with second-degree murder following a deadly shooting at McCabe's Bar in DeLand, Florida. The incident unfolded early on Saturday morning, May 3, 2025, when a brawl erupted among several patrons, leading to gunfire that left one man dead and another injured.
According to reports from the DeLand Police Department, officers responded to the bar located at 225 N. Amelia Ave. around 1:30 a.m. after receiving calls about gunfire. Witnesses described a chaotic scene where a fistfight broke out inside the crowded venue. As tensions escalated, Williams allegedly produced a firearm and opened fire, striking 32-year-old Keshod Harris multiple times in the chest. Harris was transported to a nearby hospital but succumbed to his injuries shortly after arrival.
In addition to Harris, a bartender named Stephanie Kirby was also injured during the incident, suffering gunshot wounds to both hands. Kirby later recounted the terrifying moments, stating, "When bullets are flying, and you don't know where they're gonna land, that's pretty scary." Fortunately, her injuries were non-life-threatening, and she is expected to recover.
Authorities quickly identified Williams as the suspected shooter. After fleeing the scene, he was apprehended by the New Smyrna Beach Police Department on Monday, May 5, 2025, and is currently being held at the Volusia County Jail without bond. The police have stated that the investigation remains open and active, urging the approximately 40 patrons who were present during the shooting to come forward with any information that could assist in the case.
Williams, 24, has a complicated history in the world of college football. Once heralded as one of the top safety recruits in the nation, he was ranked as a five-star prospect and the No. 2 safety in the 2020 class according to the 247Sports Composite rankings. He initially played for the Miami Hurricanes, where he appeared in 17 games over three seasons, recording 18 tackles and one interception. However, his career was marred by controversy, including a six-game suspension in 2021 due to an arrest for allegedly assaulting a pregnant woman. Those charges were ultimately dropped, allowing him to return to the field.
After transferring to the University of Maryland ahead of the 2023 season, Williams played in only four games, tallying three tackles. His football career, once filled with promise, has now taken a drastic turn as he faces serious legal consequences for his alleged actions at McCabe's Bar.
As the community grapples with the aftermath of the shooting, many are left questioning how a young man with such potential ended up in this situation. The DeLand Police Department has emphasized the importance of gathering more information from witnesses to ensure justice is served. "Detectives still continue to collect evidence and conduct interviews with people concerning the facts and the circumstances of this shooting incident," the department noted in a statement.
The shooting has sparked discussions about gun violence and safety in public spaces, particularly in nightlife venues. The tragic loss of Keshod Harris has left his family and friends mourning, while the bar community in DeLand is left to reckon with the violent incident that unfolded in what is usually a place of gathering and enjoyment.
As authorities continue their investigation, many are hopeful that the truth will emerge and that those responsible for the violence will face appropriate consequences. In the meantime, Williams awaits his legal proceedings, with the weight of his past and the future of his football career hanging in the balance.
