Eighteen-year-old Kimber Mills dreamed of nursing school and “a life built around helping others.” A senior at Cleveland High School, she was a cheerleader, track runner, and known for her “warm, friendly” nature and “a little spunk to her step.”
On October 18, Kimber joined friends at a bonfire in a wooded area called The Pit in Pinson, Alabama. Later that night, 27-year-old Steven Tyler Whitehead arrived, and an argument turned violent. Authorities say he opened fire, injuring several and fatally wounding Kimber.
Whitehead was arrested and charged with three counts of attempted murder. He remains in custody on $180,000 bond as the investigation continues.
Kimber was rushed to the hospital, where loved ones prayed for her recovery. On October 21, she was taken off life support. Her family described her honor walk as “the largest the doctor had ever seen.”
Even in death, Kimber continued giving. As a registered organ donor, she saved multiple lives. “That’s what she wanted,” said her sister, Ashley. Her family believes her kindness and courage will live on — a lasting legacy of light from a young woman who “gave endlessly.”
