Teen Brothers Christopher and Christian Kelly Arrested and Charged in Shooting Death of Montgomery Teen Zaveon Simpkins
On Friday evening, a tragic incident unfolded on Madolyn Lane in Montgomery, Alabama, resulting in the death of 17-year-old Zaveon Simpkins. The shooting has led to the arrest and charging of two local teenagers, brothers Christopher Kelly, 18, and Christian Kelly, 16.
Incident Details
At approximately 8:30 PM on April 4, 2025, Montgomery police responded to reports of gunfire in the 500 block of Madolyn Lane. Upon arrival, officers discovered Simpkins suffering from multiple gunshot wounds. Despite immediate medical attention, he was pronounced dead at the scene.
Investigation and Arrests
Through diligent investigation, authorities identified Christopher and Christian Kelly as suspects in the shooting. Both were taken into custody without incident on April 6, 2025. Christopher faces charges of murder, while Christian is charged with manslaughter due to his age.
Background on the Accused
Christopher Kelly: A recent high school graduate, Christopher has no prior criminal record. He was employed at a local automotive repair shop and was known to have a passion for mechanics.
Christian Kelly: A sophomore at Montgomery High School, Christian was a member of the junior varsity basketball team. He has no previous arrests or disciplinary issues at school.
Community Impact
The shooting has sent shockwaves through the Montgomery community. Residents expressed grief and disbelief over the involvement of local youths in such a tragic event. Community leaders are calling for increased support and intervention programs to address youth violence.
Legal Proceedings
Both brothers are currently held at the Montgomery County Detention Facility. Christopher’s bond is set at $500,000, while Christian remains in custody pending a juvenile court hearing. The legal process is ongoing, and further details will be provided as they become available.
Conclusion
The death of Zaveon Simpkins is a profound loss for the Montgomery community. As the investigation and legal proceedings continue, residents and leaders alike are grappling with the complexities surrounding youth violence and its prevention.