Kendall Kirkland, 23, of Newville, Alabama, was shot and killed on May 30, 2020, at the Powerhouse Drag Strip in Altha, Florida. The event was a large gathering — a car show, sound competition and birthday celebration attended by an estimated three to four thousand people. An argument reportedly began over a side wager on a race and escalated into violence.

Calhoun County investigators identified 46-year-old Derrick Thompson of Dothan, Alabama, as the shooter. Deputies say Thompson and Kirkland argued, Thompson drew a gun and shot Kirkland. Thompson then fired at deputies who intervened, wounded a deputy in the upper leg and injured five other civilians with minor wounds. Officers shot and killed Thompson at the scene. Kirkland was taken to hospital, underwent extensive surgery for severe blood loss and died of his injuries.

Kendall’s family described him as good-natured and sports-loving and said his death has had a profound impact on them. If anyone attended the event or has information about the confrontation leading up to the shooting, please share what was seen or heard.