Union Springs teen charged with murder in Opelika shooting

Staff Reports

Opelika, AL — Authorities in Opelika have arrested an 18-year-old man in connection with the fatal shooting of a teenage girl over the weekend.

The incident occurred Saturday night, June 7, near George Bandy Park on Jeter Avenue. Officers with the Opelika Police Department were called to the area shortly after 8:30 p.m. following reports of gunfire. When they arrived, they found 16-year-old Jamiyah Grant suffering from a gunshot wound.

Grant was rushed to East Alabama Medical Center, where she was later pronounced dead at approximately 10:30 p.m. According to investigators, after being shot, the teenager attempted to flee in a vehicle but ended up crashing into another car nearby.

This heartbreaking event unfolded during an annual Alumni Day celebration, a time meant for families, music, and community.

Police worked through the night gathering evidence and speaking with witnesses. By the next day, June 8, officers arrested Timothy Shell Jr., 18, of Union Springs. He has been charged with murder and remains in custody while the investigation continues.

At this time, officials have not disclosed a possible motive or whether the suspect and victim knew each other. An autopsy has been ordered by the Lee County Coroner’s Office to aid in the ongoing investigation.

The Opelika Police Department is asking for the public’s help as they work to piece together the events that led to the shooting. Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the Detective Division at (334) 705-5220 or reach out anonymously through the Secret Witness Hotline at (334) 745-8665.

As the community mourns the loss of a young life, law enforcement and residents alike are calling for peace, accountability, and justice in the days ahead.