Kerry Ross Jr. was shot and killed in Fort Valley, Georgia, on the afternoon of Monday, January 13, 2025, the day after celebrating his 24th birthday with family. Gunfire erupted in the 600 block of Miller Street near an abandoned church; police found two people with gunshot wounds. Kerry Ross Jr. succumbed to his injuries. A 59-year-old man, Tyrone Williams, was also shot and taken to a local hospital in stable condition.

Ross’s family remembered him as a caring young man who enjoyed gaming and helped care for his disabled aunt. The family said they did not believe the shooting was a random act. Investigators, assisted by the Georgia Bureau of Investigation, later arrested four people: 18-year-old Jakail Hillsman, 18-year-old Damontae Lockhart, 18-year-old Alex Holden, and a 15-year-old male. Authorities described the shooting as premeditated; the suspects were alleged to have met and planned to go to the Vineville community to find and harm Kerry Ross Jr. All four were charged with malice murder, felony murder, two counts of aggravated assault, aggravated battery, and possession of a firearm during the commission of a crime, and were denied bond.

A memorial of teddy bears, balloons, and pictures was placed where Ross was killed. If anyone knew Kerry Ross Jr. or saw activity in the Vineville or Miller Street area that afternoon, please share what was seen.