In the chill of a November evening in Phenix City, Alabama, the life of 30-year-old Princeton Shermal Kelly, a Black male, was tragically cut short. On November 18, 2024, at approximately 8:35 p.m., the sound of gunfire shattered the night at the Frederick Douglas Apartments on 11th Avenue. When police arrived, they found Kelly suffering from multiple gunshot wounds.
He was rushed to Piedmont Columbus Regional Hospital in critical condition with life-threatening injuries.
Despite the efforts of medical personnel, Princeton Kelly succumbed to his injuries three days later, on November 21, 2024, at 10:06 p.m. His body was then sent to the Alabama Department of Forensic Science for an autopsy to officially determine the cause of death. The scene of the shooting was described as chaotic, with investigators recovering over 100 shell casings of various calibers, indicating that multiple firearms were involved in the violent exchange. Surveillance footage from the area captured the sounds of the gun battle, suggesting a significant confrontation took place.
Born on April 12, 1994, in Opelika, Alabama, Princeton Kelly was remembered by loved ones as a funny, smart, and strong individual. He is survived by his mother and daughter. A funeral service was held for him on November 30, 2024, followed by a burial at Sunset Memorial Gardens.
The investigation into Kelly's death is ongoing, with the Phenix City Police Department's Criminal Investigations Division actively pursuing leads. Authorities have considered several potential motives, including the possibility of gang-related activity, but have not ruled out other scenarios. As of early 2026, no arrests have been made, and no suspects have been publicly identified in connection with the shooting. In an effort to generate new leads, the Russell County District Attorney's Office has created an evidence portal, urging the public to submit any information or video footage that might be relevant to the case.
