Atlanta, Georgia – Tragedy struck Albany State University athletics when volleyball player Mariam Creighton was one of two individuals fatally wounded during a shooting at the Atlanta area nightclub Elleven45. The incident has left the university community in mourning, with Athletic Director Kristene Kelly expressing their devastation over the loss of Mariam and offering condolences to her loved ones.
John Holladay, the volleyball coach at Stockbridge High School, where Creighton was a standout player, remembered her as a remarkable young lady who will be deeply missed. Creighton’s collegiate career began at Benedict College, where she quickly made an impact before transferring to Albany State as a sophomore and participating in seven matches during the 2023 season.
Located in Buckhead, Elleven45 has been a site of multiple violent incidents in recent years, prompting calls for its closure due to concerns about increased crime. A petition organized four years ago highlighted instances of criminal activity associated with the nightclub, including several shootings resulting in fatalities. The Atlanta Police Department responded to nearly 100 emergency calls linked to the club’s address in 2019 alone.
During a meeting with the Atlanta City Council, Police Chief Darin Schierbaum disclosed that the shooting at Elleven45 was instigated by a fight within the club, although the target of the shooter remains unconfirmed. Authorities are in pursuit of the suspect, and there is confidence that their identity will be revealed soon to aid in the ongoing investigation.
The tragic loss of Mariam Creighton has reverberated throughout the Albany State University community and beyond, underscoring the need for enhanced safety measures at nightlife establishments to prevent such devastating incidents in the future. The impact of this loss on her teammates, coaches, and loved ones serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of fostering safe environments for both athletic and social activities.