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Former Security Guard Charged with Murder in Tuscaloosa Hookah Lounge Shooting
Trial begins for Aaron Dewayne Hill, accused of killing Rashid Little outside CRU Lounge in 2024
Mar. 11, 2026 at 1:18am
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A former unlicensed security guard, Aaron Dewayne Hill, is on trial for the 2024 murder of Rashid Little outside a Tuscaloosa hookah lounge. Prosecutors allege Hill shot Little in the chest from close range after a physical altercation inside the now-closed CRU Lounge. The defense claims the shooting was an accidental discharge due to the chaotic environment at the overcrowded bar.
Why it matters
This case highlights issues around security protocols, liquor licenses, and gun violence at bars and nightclubs in Tuscaloosa. It also raises questions about bail reform and public safety concerns in the community following the fatal shooting.
The details
According to testimony, on January 21, 2024, a fight broke out inside CRU Lounge involving several unlicensed security guards and patrons, including Rashid Little and his friend Jimmonica Williams. Little and Williams were escorted outside, where the confrontation continued. Surveillance footage shows Hill, a former security guard, coming to the entrance and firing a single shot that struck Little in the chest, killing him. The defense claims the shooting was accidental, but prosecutors argue Hill intentionally fired the fatal shot.
- Around 12:50 a.m., a fight broke out inside CRU Lounge.
- Around 1:05 a.m., the fatal shot was fired, killing Rashid Little.
The players
Aaron Dewayne Hill
A 45-year-old former unlicensed security guard at CRU Lounge, charged with the murder of Rashid Little.
Rashid Little
A 28-year-old man who was shot and killed outside CRU Lounge.
Jimmonica Williams
Rashid Little's friend who was with him the night of the shooting.
Thyais Walker
A female security guard at CRU Lounge who was charged with being a felon in possession of a firearm after the shooting.
Kevin Davis
One of the owners of CRU Lounge, which had its business license revoked less than a month after the fatal shooting.
What they’re saying
“You're going to see, essentially, Rashid die on video. It's not easy to watch.”
— Thomas Marshall, Assistant District Attorney
“Aaron then pulls out his sidearm and before it can reach its natural drop, Rashid spits on people. Then the gun goes off. Aaron in no way intended for that gun to go off. It was a negligent discharge, a reckless act. But it wasn't intentional.”
— Travis T. Juneau, Defense Attorney
What’s next
The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.
The takeaway
This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on Tuscaloosa streets, and if any special laws are needed to govern security protocols and gun use at bars and nightclubs.
