Suspect Arrested in Fatal Shooting of 18-Year-Old Alfred Hale, Dunbar High School Student, in Downtown Dayton
DAYTON, OH — April 7, 2025 — The city of Dayton is reeling after the tragic death of 18-year-old Alfred Hale, a senior at Paul Laurence Dunbar High School, who was fatally shot in the early hours of April 4, 2025. Police have since made an arrest in the case, bringing a measure of relief to a grieving school and community.
Early Morning Violence in Downtown Dayton
The shooting occurred just after 7:20 a.m. on Friday, April 4, in the heart of downtown Dayton, near 27 S. Jefferson Street. First responders arrived on the scene to find Hale suffering from a gunshot wound. According to dispatch logs, a witness reported seeing a young man run into a nearby building saying he had been shot in the stomach.
Emergency medical services quickly transported Hale to Miami Valley Hospital, where he later succumbed to his injuries despite efforts to save his life. The area around S. Jefferson Street was quickly cordoned off as police launched an investigation.
Suspect Identified and Arrested
On Saturday, April 5, the Dayton Police Department announced the arrest of 23-year-old Julius Maurice Williamson Jr. in connection with the shooting. He was charged with murder and is also being held for a parole violation. Authorities have not yet released a motive, and it remains unclear if there was a prior relationship between Williamson and the victim.
Detectives recovered surveillance footage and conducted interviews with witnesses that ultimately led to Williamson’s identification and arrest. Police have commended the community for their cooperation in providing information that helped bring about the swift apprehension.
A Life Cut Short
Alfred Hale was a promising student and athlete at Dunbar High School, where he was preparing for graduation and looking ahead to future opportunities. Friends and teachers described him as respectful, hardworking, and full of potential.
“He had a smile that could brighten a room,” said one teacher. “He was the kind of student who you just knew had a future ahead of him.”
The Dayton Public School District issued a statement expressing its sorrow:
“We are devastated by the loss of one of our students, Alfred Hale. He was a senior at Dunbar High School, full of promise and potential. Our hearts go out to his family, friends, classmates, and staff during this incredibly difficult time. Grief counselors will be available to students and faculty in the coming days.”
Ongoing Investigation and Legal Proceedings
Williamson remains in custody at the Montgomery County Jail as the case moves forward. He is expected to make an initial court appearance later this week. If convicted, he could face decades in prison.
Police are continuing their investigation and have asked anyone with additional information about the shooting or the events leading up to it to come forward. Tipsters can remain anonymous by contacting Crime Stoppers at 937-222-STOP.
Community in Mourning
A growing memorial of flowers, candles, and photos now marks the spot where Hale was shot. Vigils and moments of silence have been organized at Dunbar High School and throughout Dayton to honor his memory.
Alfred’s family, overwhelmed with grief, has requested privacy as they make funeral arrangements. A GoFundMe page has been launched by relatives to help with burial expenses and to create a scholarship fund in Alfred’s name, so his legacy can help other students reach the milestones he was never able to.