21-year-old HBCU athlete shot and killed at Atlanta nightclub

by Nahlah Abdur-Rahman

May 14, 2024

Mariam Creighton was a volleyball player at Albany State University, an HBCU in Georgia.

---

Mariam Creighton, 21, a sophomore volleyball player at Albany State University, died May 12 in a shooting at an Atlanta nightclub.

Creighton, of Stockbridge, Ga., and Nakyris M. Ridley, 20, during the 2.5-hour shoot at Elleven45 Salon. Four other people were injured after police said an unidentified gunman began shooting during a fight inside the club.

“Mari was just a great young lady who will really be missed,” said her coach at Stockbridge High School, John Holladay. Atlanta Journal-Constitution.

Creighton’s death shocked the Albany State community. A transfer from fellow HBCU Benedict College, she had 5 digs and an assist in the 7 games she played for Albany State in 2023.

“We at Elleven 45 are deeply affected by the recent tragic events,” the club said in a statement. “Our thoughts are with everyone affected and we express our deepest condolences to the individuals and families who have suffered loss and injury. The safety and well-being of our customers and staff has always been our primary concern. To ensure a thorough investigation in cooperation with local law enforcement, we will be closing our doors today. »

“We are heartbroken over the loss of Mari,” Dr. Kristene Kelly, Albany State athletic director, wrote on X. “What a beautiful soul. Our Albany State RAMily is devastated with this news. Our thoughts are with Mari’s loved ones.

Additionally, gun violence remains a critical problem in cities like Atlanta. According to Atlanta Fox 5, gang violence continues to roil the Fulton County area where Elleven45 is located.

“We are aggressively fighting gangs in Fulton County and the region because they engage in human trafficking, drug trafficking, gun trafficking and theft throughout the region,” the chief said of Atlanta police, Darin Schierbaum, to the media.

RELATED CONTENT: Howard University student dies in car crash on campus