Ex-Miami Hurricanes player Avantae Williams arrested for murder charge following fatal bar altercation

Former college football standout Avantae Traeviyon Williams has been arrested and charged with second-degree murder following a deadly bar altercation in DeLand, Florida. The 24-year-old, who once ranked among the top safeties in the nation, now finds himself at the center of a homicide investigation.The incident unfolded early Saturday morning at McCabe’s Bar, a popular local hangout, where witnesses say a heated physical confrontation broke out among several men inside the crowded venue. As tensions escalated, one of the individuals allegedly pulled a firearm, resulting in the tragic death of 32-year-old Keshod Harris. Harris was reportedly shot seven times in the chest and later died at a nearby hospital. A bartender, Stephanie Kirby, also suffered gunshot wounds during the chaos but is expected to recover.“There was chaos, you know, everybody was running,” Kirby told Fox Orlando. “When bullets are flying, and you don’t know where they’re gonna land, that’s pretty scary.”Williams was identified as the suspected shooter and fled the scene before law enforcement arrived. According to the DeLand Police Department, he was apprehended “without incident” on Monday and is currently being held at the Volusia County Jail. Police confirmed that “this remains an open and active investigation” and are encouraging the approximately 40 patrons present during the shooting to come forward with any information.The arrest marks yet another troubling moment in Williams’ personal history. In 2021, he faced charges of aggravated battery for allegedly assaulting a pregnant woman, though those charges were ultimately dropped. Despite the controversy, Williams had continued his football career, transferring from the University of Miami to the University of Maryland. However, his collegiate performance never lived up to the promise of his early potential.Once heralded as a five-star recruit and the No. 2 safety in the 2020 class, Williams had been courted by top-tier programs like Alabama, Georgia, Florida, and Ohio State. He recorded 18 tackles and one interception with the Miami Hurricanes before playing in just four games at Maryland, where he notched a mere three tackles.The latest charges have stunned those familiar with his football journey. What was once a promising athletic career now faces a grim future as Williams awaits legal proceedings for a crime that has left a community reeling and a family in mourning.As authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the shooting, many are left questioning how a young man once destined for gridiron greatness ended up on the wrong side of the law.Also Read: Are the Steelers setting a countdown for Aaron Rodgers after drafting Will Howard?