By Mark Pszonak
A four-star recruit who was regarded as one of the best safety prospects in the country in 2020 was arrested and charged with second-degree murder due to an incident that occurred in Florida over the weekend.
BREAKING: Former Maryland DB Avantae Williams has been arrested for m*rder in DeLand, Florida.
— Football Forever (@fballforeverhq) May 6, 2025
DeLand police arrested Williams today for his involvement in the Saturday sh***ing at McCabe’s Bar that resulted in the d**th of 32-year-old Keshod Harris. pic.twitter.com/akQFXc96i3
Avante Williams, who played his high school football at DeLand High School in Florida, signed with Miami in February 2020. After totaling 27 tackles and one interception in two seasons with the Canes, he transferred to Maryland, where he only had three tackles in 2023. He did not play college football in 2024.
The incident occurred in DeLand during Saturday’s early morning hours. Below is the official release from the police department:
Arrest made in early Saturday morning shooting at McCabe’s Bar
DeLand Police Detectives have worked tirelessly since this crime occurred and have obtained a warrant of arrest for Avantae Traeviyon Williams, 24, of DeLand. Mr. Williams has been arrested without incident by the DeLand Police Department in connection with the recent homicide at McCabe’s bar.
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Since the incident, the Criminal Investigations Division of DeLand Police Department have gathered evidence and developed investigative leads to determine the identity of the shooter. Working with the help of with the State Attorney’s Office, an arrest warrant charging Mr. Williams for Second Degree Murder was obtained. The victim’s family has been informed of the arrest.
At this time, this remains an open and active investigation. Detectives still continue to collect evidence and conduct interviews with people concerning the facts and circumstances of this shooting incident. Approximately 40 patrons were inside McCabe’s Bar on the night of the incident and they may have information that will help bring justice in this case.
No further information will be provided at this time.
Keshod Harris, 32, was shot six times before he died. Reports are that it happened during a fight between two groups at the bar, which ultimately escalated to gunfire.
