On December 15, 2017, two-year-old Carnell Williams-Thomas was tragically killed while playing with a scooter outside his home in southwest Miami-Dade, Florida. The incident occurred in the Goulds neighborhood, a community that was left heartbroken and outraged by the senseless act of violence. Carnell was struck by a stray bullet, which was not intended for him.
His mother, Dorthy Williams, was nearby when she heard the gunshot and rushed to her son, but despite her efforts, Carnell succumbed to his injuries. The toddler's death was one of 93 homicides in Miami-Dade County that year, and it remains an unsolved case that detectives are eager to solve.
The Miami-Dade Police Department has utilized every available resource to track down the person responsible for Carnell's death. Despite extensive efforts, including door-to-door canvassing and public pleas for information, the shooter has not been apprehended. The community has rallied together, with local leaders and residents calling for justice and urging anyone with information to come forward. A reward for information leading to an arrest has grown over the years, reaching $37,000, but no significant leads have emerged.
Carnell's family has been vocal in their quest for justice, often speaking out about the impact of his death and the need for the perpetrator to be held accountable. His mother, Dorthy Williams, has expressed her forgiveness towards the shooter but has pleaded for them to come forward and explain why her son was taken from her. The family has also organized annual events, such as toy drives, to honor Carnell's memory and keep his story alive in the hopes that it will lead to new information and ultimately, justice for the young boy.
The case of Carnell Williams-Thomas remains a poignant reminder of the devastating effects of gun violence and the ongoing struggle for justice in communities affected by such tragedies. The Miami-Dade Police Department continues to investigate the case, and the community remains hopeful that one day, the person responsible for Carnell's death will be brought to justice.
