OPELIKA, AL — Tragedy at George C. Bandy Park: 16-Year-Old Jamiyah Grant Fatally Shot During Annual Alumni Day Celebration
A night meant for joy, unity, and celebration ended in sorrow and shock as gunfire erupted during a large gathering at George C. Bandy Park in Opelika on Saturday, June 7, 2025, tragically claiming the life of 16-year-old Jamiyah Grant. The shooting occurred during the highly anticipated Annual Alumni Day Celebration, an event that traditionally brings together members of the Opelika community for an evening filled with food, music, laughter, and shared memories.
What began as a festive occasion quickly descended into chaos just after 9:00 p.m., when multiple shots were fired into the crowd, sending attendees scrambling for safety. Emergency services responded swiftly to the scene and discovered Grant suffering from a gunshot wound. Despite life-saving efforts, the young teen was pronounced dead shortly after arriving at the hospital.
Jamiyah, affectionately known as “Miyah” by her loved ones, was a vibrant and spirited student with dreams of becoming a nurse. Known for her infectious smile, kind heart, and dedication to her studies and family, her sudden and senseless death has left her school, church, and entire community reeling in grief. She was a rising junior at Opelika High School and a beloved friend to many.
“Jamiyah was the kind of student who made our school a better place,” said Principal Melissa Robinson. “She was respectful, determined, and full of promise. We are devastated by this loss.”
Authorities from the Opelika Police Department confirmed that the shooting appears to have stemmed from an altercation that escalated during the event. They are currently pursuing leads and asking for the public’s help in identifying those responsible. So far, no arrests have been made.
Police Chief Shane Healey issued a statement calling the violence “unacceptable” and emphasized the department’s commitment to bringing the perpetrators to justice. “This community deserves peace,” he said. “We will not rest until we find those responsible for robbing a child of her future and tearing a family apart.”
As the investigation continues, the community has rallied together to mourn and support one another. A candlelight vigil is planned at Bandy Park on Tuesday evening, where residents will gather to honor Jamiyah’s life and call for an end to gun violence.
“We cannot let this tragedy define who we are as a community,” said local pastor Rev. Angela Clay. “We must come together in love and in purpose to ensure our children are safe and their futures protected.”
A GoFundMe page has been established to assist the Grant family with funeral expenses and to support their healing during this unimaginable time. Friends and neighbors have also been delivering meals and offering emotional support, demonstrating the tight-knit strength that defines Opelika in times of sorrow.
Jamiyah Grant’s death serves as a somber reminder of the urgent need for community-wide efforts to combat senseless violence. Her memory now lives on in the hearts of those who knew her, and in the renewed calls for change that have followed her tragic passing.
As the investigation unfolds, the people of Opelika remain united in grief, remembrance, and hope—for justice, for healing, and for a future where no more lives are lost to violence.
Rest in peace, Jamiyah. Your light will never be forgotten.