Huntsville, Alabama, September 12, 2025
News Summary
In a deeply emotional trial, former Oakwood University assistant coach Kashonna Strong was acquitted of murder charges related to the fatal shooting of Antonio Robinson during a child drop-off incident. The verdict followed a four-day trial that included testimony from key witnesses, revealing a complicated love triangle and claims of self-defense. Strong’s defense was bolstered by testimonies indicating Robinson had a history of violence. The emotional aftermath of the verdict continued to resonate with both families involved.
Huntsville, Alabama – Kashonna Strong, a former assistant basketball coach at Oakwood University, was found not guilty of murder on Thursday. The verdict came after a four-day trial where Strong was accused of fatally shooting Antonio Robinson in 2022 during a child drop-off incident.
The courtroom was emotionally charged as both families reacted to the verdict. Antonio Robinson’s family expressed their profound grief, mourning the loss of their loved one. In stark contrast, Strong’s father collapsed in the courtroom following the verdict and was subsequently taken to the hospital, although he has since recovered and returned home.
The case revolved around a complicated love triangle involving Strong, Robinson, and Tiana Eldridge, who is the mother of Robinson’s child. It was reported that Robinson suffered three gunshot wounds during the altercation. At trial, an expert indicated the possibility that Robinson may have accidentally shot himself once during the struggle over the firearm.
Strong’s trial included extensive witness testimonies, including that of Tiana Eldridge, who at the time was in a relationship with Strong. Eldridge provided crucial testimony, stating that Robinson had a history of violence and that she had previously obtained a restraining order against him. She asserted that Strong acted in self-defense during the confrontation.
Throughout the course of the trial, Strong’s defense attorney expressed relief at the verdict. They had a longstanding relationship, with the defense focusing on the claim that Strong was acting to protect herself from Robinson’s aggression. The prosecution presented a range of witnesses, including police officers and recordings from a 911 call, designed to establish the sequence of events leading up to the shooting.
In her testimony, Eldridge indicated that both Strong and Robinson sought to grab for firearms during the confrontation, suggesting a chaotic struggle ensued. The jury began deliberations on Wednesday afternoon and reached their verdict the following morning, ultimately acquitting Strong of all charges.
Following the verdict, Strong expressed plans to visit her father in the hospital and share a moment with her daughter, marking the beginning of her attempts to reclaim her life after the ordeal. The emotional ramifications of the case will likely continue to be felt by both families involved.
Background Context
The trial highlighted issues surrounding domestic violence and the complexities of relationships entangled in a love triangle. Eldridge’s testimony was crucial as it provided context regarding the history of violence attributed to Robinson, which framed the narrative of self-defense surrounding Strong’s actions. The legal proceedings underscored the difficulties often faced in determining culpability in heated domestic disputes where gun violence occurs.
Key Features at a Glance
- Verdict: Not Guilty
- Accused: Kashonna Strong
- Victim: Antonio Robinson
- Incident Date: 2022
- Trial Length: Four Days
- Key Witness: Tiana Eldridge
FAQ Section
What were the charges against Kashonna Strong?
Kashonna Strong was charged with murder for the fatal shooting of Antonio Robinson during a child drop-off incident.
What was the outcome of the trial?
The jury found Kashonna Strong not guilty of murder after a four-day trial.
Who testified in Strong’s defense?
Tiana Eldridge, who was in a relationship with Strong and is the mother of Robinson’s child, testified in Strong’s defense, stating Robinson had a history of violence.
What were the circumstances surrounding the shooting?
The shooting occurred during a struggle involving both Strong and Robinson, with expert testimony suggesting the possibility that Robinson may have shot himself during the altercation.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- WAFF: Former Oakwood University Basketball Coach Found Not Guilty
- WHNT: Woman Found Not Guilty in 2022 Huntsville Shooting
- WAFF: Huntsville Murder Trial Testimony Reveals Love Triangle
- AL.com: Basketball Coach Charged with Murder in Huntsville Slaying
- Wikipedia: Legal Defenses to Murder
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Love Triangle
- Google Search: Domestic Violence
- Google Scholar: Self-Defense
- Google News: Huntsville Court Trial
Author: STAFF HERE HUNTSVILLE WRITER
The HUNTSVILLE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREHuntsville.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Huntsville, Madison County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Panoply Arts Festival, Rocket City Brewfest, and Huntsville Comic & Pop Culture Expo. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Huntsville/Madison County Chamber of Commerce and HudsonAlpha Institute for Biotechnology, plus leading businesses in aerospace, defense, and manufacturing that power the local economy such as Boeing, SAIC, and Mazda Toyota Manufacturing. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBirmingham.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Alabama's dynamic landscape.
