Alabama A&M Student Killed in Huntsville; Suspect Captured After Multi‑Agency Manhunt

April 18, 2026 - HUNTSVILLE, Ala. - A 19‑year‑old Alabama A&M University student was shot and killed inside a Huntsville apartment earlier this month, prompting an hours‑long manhunt that ended with the arrest of the suspected gunman. Police have identified the victim as Nadiya Dayana Elise Perkins, a freshman criminal justice major from Montgomery.

The Shooting

Huntsville Police responded to Candlewood Apartments off Julia Street around 9 a.m. on Wednesday, March 4, after receiving reports of gunfire. Officers were directed by bystanders to a specific building, where they discovered Perkins dead inside an apartment. Madison County Coroner Tyler Berryhill later ruled her death a homicide.

Authorities quickly identified Ahmad Khalil Barney, 20, as the suspect. Police say Barney and Perkins were believed to have been in a domestic relationship at the time of the shooting.

The Manhunt

Two days after the killing, Huntsville Police received a tip that Barney had been spotted near Jordan Road and Shields Road. When officers arrived, Barney fled into a wooded area, triggering a large‑scale search involving K‑9 units, drones, and multiple law‑enforcement agencies. Several Madison County schools were placed on secure status as a precaution.

Police credited drone thermal imaging with helping narrow the search area despite challenging weather conditions. Business owners in the area locked down as officers combed the woods and surrounding neighborhoods.

A 911 tip eventually led officers across town to the 4900 block of Century Street, where Barney was arrested without incident at the Huntsville Place Student Apartments around 2 p.m. Friday.

Legal Developments

Barney was charged with murder and booked into the Madison County Jail without bond. On April 8, he waived his preliminary hearing, allowing the case to move directly to a Madison County grand jury, which will decide whether to issue a formal indictment. His attorney cited the need for timely discovery materials.

Remembering the Victim

Alabama A&M University released a statement mourning Perkins, describing her as a student "with promise and purpose" and a thoughtful, friendly presence on campus. The university plans to honor her during a campus memorial service later this year.

Family members told WAAY‑31 that Perkins "had purpose written all over her" and that the sudden loss has left them devastated. Loved ones say they are leaning on faith and each other as they process the tragedy.

Community Impact

The killing has shaken both the Alabama A&M community and the surrounding Huntsville area. Police officials emphasized the importance of community cooperation in locating and arresting Barney, calling the manhunt a "perfect example of partnership between law enforcement and the public."

The investigation remains ongoing as prosecutors prepare the case for grand jury review.