Two sisters killed in Tuscaloosa apartment shooting; suspect charged with capital murder

In a tragic act of violence that has shaken the Tuscaloosa community, two sisters-20-year-old Kaliyah Houston and her 16-year-old sibling-were fatally shot late Monday night at Woodlawn Manor Apartments. A third victim, a 17-year-old male, survived the attack and is recovering. Authorities have arrested 19-year-old Keshawn Jermichael Woods, who now faces charges of capital murder and attempted murder.

The shooting and immediate response

Tuscaloosa Police responded to reports of gunfire around 11:30 p.m. on November 10 at 3820 1st Avenue, a residential complex in central Tuscaloosa. Upon arrival, officers discovered three individuals had been shot inside an apartment. The two sisters were pronounced dead at the scene, while the injured teen managed to flee and seek help.

According to investigators, Woods had been living with Houston for several months. The fatal shooting reportedly followed a domestic argument inside the apartment. During the altercation, Woods allegedly produced a handgun and opened fire, killing both sisters and wounding the third victim.

Children present, but unharmed

In a chilling detail, police confirmed that several young children-including an infant-were inside the apartment during the shooting. Fortunately, none of the children were physically harmed. Authorities have not released further information about their identities or current custody arrangements.

Arrest and charges

After fleeing the scene on foot, Woods was located hours later by the U.S. Marshals Task Force. He was taken into custody without incident and is currently being held in the Tuscaloosa County Jail without bond. He faces two counts of capital murder for killing multiple victims in a single act, and one count of attempted murder for the surviving teen.

Captain Jack Kennedy of the Tuscaloosa Violent Crimes Unit stated that the investigation remains active. "This was a horrific act of violence that claimed the lives of two young women and endangered others," Kennedy said. "We are working diligently to ensure justice is served."

Community reaction and broader context

The deaths of Houston and her sister mark the 18th and 19th homicides investigated in Tuscaloosa County in 2025, according to local crime tracking reports. The incident has sparked renewed concern about domestic violence and gun safety in residential communities.

Neighbors and community members have expressed grief and disbelief. "It's heartbreaking to know that something like this happened so close to home," said one resident of Woodlawn Manor. "Those girls didn't deserve this."

Local organizations are expected to hold vigils and offer support services to affected families in the coming days.

Looking ahead

As the investigation continues, authorities are urging anyone with additional information to contact the Tuscaloosa Violent Crimes Unit. Meanwhile, the surviving victim is receiving medical care and is expected to recover.

The tragedy underscores the urgent need for community engagement, mental health support, and proactive intervention in domestic disputes before they escalate into violence.

Sources:

ABC33/40

Tuscaloosa News

Tuscaloosa Thread