Grimes was an accomplished criminal justice major at ASU, where she had become a standout member of the Honey Beez Dance Team. Known for her captivating performances and vibrant energy, she was often described by those close to her as a person who could light up any room with her presence. But Grimes was more than just a dancer. She was a mother, a daughter, and a driven young woman with a passion for justice, dance, and making a difference in the world.

Before her time at ASU, Ginnia was a proud graduate of Mays High School, class of 2021, located in Southwest Atlanta. It was during her high school years that Ginnia first garnered attention for her remarkable dancing skills. A video of one of her high school performances went viral on social media, making her an internet sensation. The video was later featured on the popular entertainment program Access Hollywood, marking the beginning of what many believed would be a promising career in entertainment.

Her talent in dance led her to adopt the stage names “Strawberry” and “Purple Doll” within the dance community. She was passionate about performance and often spoke about her dreams of becoming famous—dreams that were not based solely on ambition, but on her undeniable talent and magnetic stage presence. Ginnia’s ambition to achieve her dreams was only amplified by the birth of her son, Rogers McCloud III, in 2024. Despite the challenges of new motherhood, Ginnia remained focused on her academic and career goals, determined to provide a bright future for herself and her son.

As a mother, Ginnia was fiercely devoted to her child. Her love for Rogers was evident in every aspect of her life. She worked hard to balance her responsibilities as a student, a mother, and an aspiring performer, driven by a desire to give her son the best life possible. For Ginnia, this included completing her education, excelling in her studies, and working toward a future that would allow her to be both a successful professional and a role model for her child.

The Circumstances of Her Death

According to Grimes’ family, the fatal shooting occurred on the evening of April 4, 2025, when Ginnia was riding as a passenger in a vehicle traveling on Interstate 85 in Montgomery County. Early reports suggest that a firearm was discharged inside the car, striking Grimes and resulting in her death. Her family has confirmed that the incident took place while she was in the company of a friend, though they have not disclosed the identity of that individual.

At this time, law enforcement is treating the case as an active death investigation, but little information has been released to the public regarding the specific circumstances surrounding the shooting. Authorities have not yet confirmed whether the incident was an accident, an act of foul play, or some other unforeseen event. The Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office, along with other local law enforcement agencies, is working to gather evidence and interview witnesses in order to piece together the events that led to Grimes’ tragic passing.

Details remain scarce, and investigators are being careful not to speculate prematurely about what may have caused the firearm to discharge inside the vehicle. It is still unclear whether the shooting was an accident, whether anyone else in the vehicle was involved, or whether the firearm was legally possessed. As the investigation unfolds, authorities have urged anyone with relevant information to come forward to assist in the investigation.

The Community Reacts to Ginnia Grimes’ Death

The shocking news of Ginnia Grimes’ death has left both the ASU community and the people of Southwest Atlanta in mourning. Tributes have poured in from Grimes’ friends, family members, professors, and peers, all of whom remember her as a kind, ambitious, and talented young woman with a bright future ahead of her.

At Alabama State University, Grimes was a cherished member of the Honey Beez Dance Team, where her contributions were greatly appreciated by her teammates and fellow dancers. Known for her infectious energy and fierce dedication, Ginnia was not only a star on the dance floor but also a source of support and inspiration for those around her. Her teammates have expressed their deep sorrow at her passing, remembering her as someone who was always willing to lend a helping hand and lift the spirits of others.

Members of the ASU community have taken to social media to share their memories of Ginnia, highlighting the positive impact she had on those around her. “She was an amazing person with such a beautiful spirit. It’s hard to believe she’s gone,” wrote one of her fellow students. “She was always so full of life, always dancing, always smiling. This loss is so heartbreaking.”

In her hometown of Southwest Atlanta, Ginnia was also well-known for her infectious personality and the love she showed to those closest to her. Family members described her as a devoted mother and a determined young woman who worked hard to pursue her dreams despite the challenges she faced. Many in the local community are still struggling to come to terms with the loss, as Ginnia was deeply admired and respected by those who had the privilege of knowing her.

The Grimes Family’s Grief

The grief experienced by Ginnia’s family is immeasurable. Her mother, father, and extended family members have all expressed their heartbreak over the loss of a young woman who had so much potential. In a statement released to the press, Grimes’ family said, “We are devastated by this tragic loss. Ginnia was the light of our lives, and we are struggling to understand how this could have happened. She was loved by so many, and we are heartbroken that she was taken from us so suddenly.”

The family has asked for privacy during this difficult time but also expressed their desire to see justice done in the case of Ginnia’s death. They have urged anyone with information about the incident to contact law enforcement and assist in the investigation. As the investigation continues, the Grimes family is left to navigate their grief and find solace in the memories of the bright, talented young woman they lost far too soon.

The Investigation: What Law Enforcement Is Doing

The Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office, along with other law enforcement agencies, is working diligently to determine the cause of Ginnia Grimes’ death. Authorities are examining evidence, interviewing witnesses, and reviewing surveillance footage from the area surrounding the shooting. The vehicle in which Grimes was riding has been impounded for further analysis, and investigators are attempting to piece together the events leading up to the fatal shooting.

So far, law enforcement officials have not released a timeline of the events that occurred on the night of the shooting, nor have they commented on whether any suspects have been identified. Investigators are treating the case as an active death investigation, and they have urged the public to remain patient as they work to uncover the full details of the incident.

The Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office has also made a public appeal for any individuals who may have witnessed the incident or who have relevant information to come forward and assist in the investigation. Authorities are specifically looking for any information related to the handling of firearms in the vehicle or any suspicious activity that may have occurred prior to the shooting.

Remembering Ginnia Grimes: A Life Cut Short

As the investigation continues, the community at large is reflecting on the life of Ginnia Grimes, a young woman whose potential was limitless. Though her life was tragically cut short, her memory will live on in the hearts of those who knew her. Ginnia’s story serves as a reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of cherishing each moment with those we love.

Her ambition, her talent, and her dedication to her family and her future were qualities that inspired everyone she met. Though she is no longer with us, her legacy will continue to influence the lives of those who were fortunate enough to know her.

Call for Justice and Closure

As the investigation into Ginnia Grimes’ death continues, the family, friends, and community are all seeking justice. They are hoping that the truth will emerge, providing closure and ensuring that those responsible for her death are held accountable. The loss of Ginnia has left a lasting impact on all who knew her, and the need for answers is paramount. Anyone with information is urged to come forward and assist investigators in their efforts to understand the circumstances that led to her tragic death.

The entire ASU and Atlanta communities stand united in their mourning, remembering a young woman who was taken far too soon.