Fatal shooting near Jefferson Street believed to be accidental

Published on May 12, 2025

UPDATE (Tuesday, May 13, 2025 at 4:10 p.m.): The victim in the accidental fatal shooting that occurred on Monday, May 12, has been identified as Christopher Keunta Hatcher, 24, of Huntsville. Evidence indicates the firearm was discharged by a juvenile who was handling it inside the vehicle. As a result of these findings, no charges will be filed in this case.

The Huntsville Police Department (HPD) has reason to believe the fatal shooting on Monday, May 12, in the 100 block of Jefferson Street was accidental.

Just after 12:30 p.m., officers responded to a call reporting a shooting and located a red sedan in a rear parking lot. Inside the vehicle, officers found an adult male suffering from a gunshot wound. He was taken to Huntsville Hospital in critical condition, where he died from his injuries.

Three other individuals were inside the vehicle at the time of the incident: an adult female and two juveniles. The female and juveniles were questioned by investigators.

Crime Scene investigators recovered a firearm believed to have been used in the shooting. Based on interviews and evidence collected at the scene, HPD’s Major Crimes Unit believes the shooting was accidental.

The investigation is ongoing. No charges have been filed at this time.