Dayton Teen Alfred Hale, 18, Fatally Shot Days Before Graduation; Suspect in Custody as Community Mourns Tragic Loss
DAYTON, OH – Just days before he was set to walk across the graduation stage, 18-year-old Alfred Hale’s life was stolen in a burst of gunfire. On what should have been a time filled with celebration and anticipation for the future, the Dunbar High School senior was instead gunned down on South Jefferson Street—his final moments marked by chaos, bloodshed, and heartbreak.
According to Dayton Police, officers responded to reports of shots fired and found Hale suffering from multiple gunshot wounds. Despite rapid response from medics, Hale succumbed to his injuries at the scene. The teen’s death sent shockwaves through the local community, leaving family, friends, classmates, and school staff reeling.
Authorities have arrested 23-year-old Julius Maurice Williamson Jr., now charged with Hale’s murder. While investigators have not released a motive, the city’s leadership has made clear that this was a tragedy that should never have happened.
Dayton Mayor Jeff Mims called the shooting “a senseless and devastating loss,” adding, “We cannot continue to bury our children before they’ve had the chance to live their lives.” Superintendent Dr. Elizabeth Lolli echoed the grief, saying the school district is “mourning the loss of a bright young man whose future was just beginning.”
Alfred Hale was known for his warm spirit, love for sports, and a determination to beat the odds. He had recently completed college applications and had dreams of becoming a physical therapist. Those who knew him say he brought light into any room and often uplifted others even in his own moments of struggle.
“He was supposed to graduate next week,” one classmate shared tearfully. “He was supposed to walk with us.”
At Dunbar High School, crisis response teams have been deployed to help students and staff process the traumatic loss. Grief counseling is available, but the overwhelming sentiment remains one of disbelief and sorrow.
For the Hale family, the pain is immeasurable. “This is a nightmare. We don’t wake up from this,” said a cousin at a candlelight vigil held in his honor. “We want justice, but more than that, we want our Alfred back.”
Community leaders and activists are calling for renewed efforts to combat youth violence and address the root causes driving these devastating incidents. Another life cut short, another family broken, another community left to mourn.
As the investigation continues, the community clings to memories, pictures, and shared moments. In the days ahead, Alfred Hale will be remembered not as a victim, but as a vibrant young man with limitless potential—a young soul who deserved more than this world gave him.
Our hearts and deepest condolences go out to the Hale family, the Dunbar High School community, and all those touched by Alfred’s life. May his memory inspire change, healing, and justice.