DAYTON, Ohio — Police have arrested a suspect in connection with the fatal shooting of 18-year-old Alfred Hale, a senior at Paul Laurence Dunbar High School. The arrest comes after an intensive investigation that relied on advanced technology and community cooperation.
Dayton police confirmed Monday that 23-year-old Julius Maurice Williamson Jr. was taken into custody on the morning of April 6. Online jail records indicate Williamson is being held on suspicion of murder and a parole violation, although formal charges have not yet been announced by authorities.
The deadly shooting took place in the early hours of Thursday, April 4. Officers responded to reports of a shooting at 27 S. Jefferson Street at approximately 7:23 a.m. Upon arrival, they found Hale suffering from multiple gunshot wounds. Despite efforts by medics, the teen was pronounced dead at the scene.
The tragic loss has sparked sorrow and outrage throughout the Dayton community. Mayor Jeffrey J. Mims condemned the violence, calling the incident a “senseless event” and emphasizing the city’s ongoing initiatives to prevent gun violence. “We have zero tolerance for violence in our neighborhoods, downtown, and across the city,” he said.
Dayton Public Schools Superintendent Dr. David Lawrence also released a heartfelt statement mourning Hale’s death. “Alfred Hale was a valued member of both the Dunbar family and the broader Dayton Public Schools community,” Lawrence said. “He will be greatly missed by students, staff, and all who knew him.”
In the aftermath of the tragedy, a crisis response team was deployed to Paul Laurence Dunbar High School to provide emotional support to students and staff. The district also encouraged those needing help outside of school hours to call the Montgomery County 24/7 Crisis Support Line at 833-580-2255.
Dr. Lawrence stated he would be visiting Hale’s family personally and reaffirmed the district’s dedication to working with the city and local organizations to combat youth violence.
The Dayton Police Department has not released further details about a potential motive or the events leading up to the shooting. The investigation is still active, and anyone with information is urged to come forward to assist law enforcement in their ongoing efforts.