Deputies said Ricky Adkins pointed a realistic pellet gun during a warrant service in Vance.
VANCE, Ala. — A 36-year-old Alabama man is expected to face a manslaughter charge after deputies trying to serve warrants shot and killed his sister during an early Thursday encounter behind a Vance home, authorities said.
Ricky Adkins remained hospitalized in critical but stable condition after the shooting, officials said. His sister, 43-year-old Kristie Adkins, died after deputies fired at Ricky Adkins when he allegedly pointed what looked like a handgun at them from inside a tent.
Deputies with the Tuscaloosa County Sheriff’s Office went to the home about 5 a.m. May 28 while looking for Ricky Adkins, who was wanted on multiple warrants. Officials said deputies found him in a tent behind the house with Kristie Adkins. Investigators said the siblings gave false names and tried to hide Ricky Adkins’ identity with a face covering.
Capt. Marty Sellers of the Tuscaloosa Violent Crimes Unit said deputies ordered Ricky Adkins to remove the covering. Sellers said Adkins then drew a BB or pellet gun made to look like a Smith and Wesson M&P Shield and pointed it over his sister’s shoulder. “It was completely indistinguishable from an actual weapon,” Sellers said.
Deputies fired their department-issued weapons, striking both siblings, authorities said. Kristie Adkins died from her injuries. Ricky Adkins was struck by multiple rounds and taken to a hospital with life-threatening injuries. Officials said officers remained with him because he was in custody.
Investigators reviewed body camera footage, physical evidence and witness statements before consulting with the district attorney. Officials then obtained a manslaughter warrant for Ricky Adkins. He also is expected to be served with the original warrants for certain persons forbidden to possess a firearm and menacing.
Phillip Atchinson, Ricky and Kristie Adkins’ stepfather, said the family is grieving both the death and the questions left by the shooting. “Both are my stepkids. I love both of them,” Atchinson said. He said body camera footage would be important in showing what happened.
Three deputies were placed on paid administrative leave under department protocol. Officials said the case will be sent to a Tuscaloosa County grand jury after Ricky Adkins is served with the warrants.
Author note: Last updated June 1, 2026.