Authorities said the shooting happened during a warrant service behind a Tuscaloosa County home.
VANCE, Ala. — Three Tuscaloosa County deputies were placed on paid administrative leave after a warrant service ended with a woman dead, her brother wounded and a manslaughter warrant approved, officials said.
The shooting happened about 5 a.m. May 28 at a home in Vance. Deputies were searching for 36-year-old Ricky Adkins, who was wanted on warrants, when they found him in a tent behind the residence with his sister, 43-year-old Kristie Adkins.
Authorities said Ricky and Kristie Adkins tried to hide his identity by using false names and a face covering. When deputies told Ricky Adkins to remove the covering, officials said he pulled a BB or pellet gun designed to look like a handgun and pointed it toward deputies over his sister’s shoulder.
Capt. Marty Sellers of the Tuscaloosa Violent Crimes Unit said the object appeared to be a real firearm during the encounter. He described it as a replica of a Smith and Wesson M&P Shield. Deputies fired, striking both Ricky and Kristie Adkins, officials said.
Kristie Adkins died from her injuries. Ricky Adkins was taken to a hospital after being hit by multiple rounds. Officials said he was in critical but stable condition and was expected to survive. Officers remained posted with him at the hospital because he was in custody.
Investigators said they reviewed body camera footage, evidence from the scene and witness statements before meeting with the district attorney. A manslaughter warrant was obtained for Ricky Adkins, who will be served after his release from the hospital, officials said.
The original warrants deputies were trying to serve involved allegations of certain persons forbidden to possess a firearm and menacing. Sellers said the shooting also will go before a Tuscaloosa County grand jury once Ricky Adkins is served.
Phillip Atchinson, the siblings’ stepfather, said the family is waiting for the full record of the encounter. “You know body cams will tell the truth about what happened,” Atchinson said. He said the family loved both siblings and wanted answers.
The deputies’ leave status will be handled by the sheriff’s office. Ricky Adkins remained hospitalized Monday as the manslaughter warrant and the two earlier warrants awaited service.
Author note: Last updated June 1, 2026.