A former University of Miami football player, Avantae Williams, has been charged with second-degree murder following a fatal shooting at a bar in Volusia County, near Orlando. The incident, which took place at McCabe's Bar in DeLand, led to the death of 32-year-old Keshod Harris, who was shot six times. The shooting happened during a fight between two groups last Saturday, as reported by NBC Miami. NBC Miami adds that a bartender attempting to intervene was also injured, sustaining gunshot wounds to the hands.
Williams, 24, reportedly fled the scene and was arrested yesterday without incident. The DeLand Police Department has declared that this is still an open and active investigation, and it continues to collect evidence and conduct interviews. Local10 mentioned that approximately 40 patrons present during the night of the shooting could potentially provide further information for investigation. Additionally, Williams is noted to have had a previous arrest in 2021 on a battery charge, which was eventually dropped.
Responding officers from the DeLand Police Department and the Volusia County Sheriff's Office arrived at the scene, located at 225 N. Amelia Ave., around 1:30 a.m. after the altercation turned violent. Witnesses reported that during a fistfight, one man drew a gun and opened fire. "The victim, identified as 32-year-old Keshod Harris of DeLand, was struck multiple times in the chest," the DeLand police said. He was later pronounced dead after being taken to a hospital for his injuries, according to Local10.
As the investigation continues, Williams remains detained in Volusia County. The case marks a fall for the former UM defensive back, who signed with the University of Miami in 2020 and later played a season at Maryland.
