Tuscaloosa County Deputies Kill Woman While Firing on Her Brother, Who Was Armed with BB Gun

Tuscaloosa County Sheriff's deputies shot and killed a woman whose wanted brother was pointing a BB gun at police on Thursday morning. The 36-year-old suspect was also shot and has been charged with manslaughter for allegedly causing her death.

In an afternoon update, Captain Marty Sellers, the co-commander of the Tuscaloosa Violent Crimes Unit, said their team will be investigating the fatal shooting.

Sellers said at about 5 a.m. Thursday, TCSO deputies arrived at a residence on Gladys Drive in the eastern Tuscaloosa County city of Vance, where they were attempting to arrest 36-year-old Ricky Adkins.

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According to the VCU, Adkins was located in a tent outside of the residence, which was also occupied by his 43-year-old sister, Christie Lynn Adkins.

"When deputies made contact with the occupants of the tent, Mr. Adkins’ sister spoke with the deputies at the door of the tent. She attempted to conceal the identity of Mr. Adkins," Sellers said in a press release. "As deputies ordered Mr. Adkins to remove a face covering, Mr. Adkins pulled a handgun and pointed it at deputies over his sister’s shoulder. Investigation later determined that the handgun was a BB or pellet gun that was made to look exactly like a handgun. It was indistinguishable from a functioning handgun."

Sellers said the deputies opened fire, striking both Christie Adkins and Ricky Adkins.

Christie did not survive the shooting, and Ricky Adkins was hit several times. He was taken to an area hospital for treatment of his wounds.

"After reviewing bodycams, physical evidence and witness statements and after consultation with the District Attorney, investigators obtained a warrant for manslaughter on Mr Adkins," Sellers said. "Mr. Adkins created the circumstances that led to Ms. Adkins’ death. Due to this, the warrant was obtained. Adkins will be charged on his release from medical treatment."

No mugshot was available for the 36-year-old Ricky Adkins, who is still being treated medically and has not yet been jailed.

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