DeKalb County College Basketball Star Faces Murder Charges

DEKALB COUNTY, GA — A Lithonia college basketball star has been arrested and charged
in connection with a murder in Henry County. According to police, the athlete was involved in a shooting in Stockbridge on April 8.

Teshaun Hightower who played at Tulane University was arrested Saturday on murder charges, reports WSB. The victim died of his injuries at the hospital, said police. The victim’s identity has not been released.

Hightower was charged with murder, aggravated assault, possession of a firearm during the commission of a felony and battery.

Police arrested three other people in connection with the murder. Police are still searching for two more, including Jeffrey Hightower and Kelvonie Burney.

According to ESPN, Hightower was the Green Wave’s leading scorer in the 2019-20 season. The Georgia native transferred to Tulane University last year after playing two seasons at the University of Georgia.

He declared for the NBA draft earlier this month.

Hightower and his brother were being held without bond in the Henry County Jail on Monday, reports ESPN.

Averick Walker, Hightower's attorney, said he’s innocent.

“He didn't shoot anybody,” Walker said. “It's sad that this detective sought to make him out to be a monster and he's not. When it's all said and done, it will come out in the wash that the person who did fire the gun shot the gun to protect Teshaun.

"Teshaun's brother actually fired the weapon and fired in self-defense. The victim came out of the house with a gun in his hand and turned his weapon toward Teshaun to shoot him. That's why the victim was shot himself."

Walker told ESPN that under Georgia law, Hightower and his brother could legally defend themselves.

"These people have a right to stand your ground," Walker said. "If somebody threatens you with a weapon, you have a right to stand your ground. The victim was called outside by his girlfriend, and he came out with a gun in his hand."

The university announced Sunday that Hightower had been dismissed from the team following his arrest.