Tontoria York, a 20-year-old African American woman, was tragically killed on February 7, 2019, in High Point, North Carolina. York was nine months pregnant at the time of her death. The incident occurred at the Deep River Point Apartments, where officers were called to the scene after a man reported that his pregnant girlfriend had been shot. The man, identified as William Hayes III, was York's boyfriend and the father of her unborn child.
Neighbors reported that York and Hayes had been arguing just a few hours before she was found dead.
The investigation revealed that the homicide was domestic-related. Hayes was arrested and charged with first-degree murder. He faced the possibility of the death penalty or life in prison without parole for the alleged killing. The case was particularly heart-wrenching as York was a loving mother to a two-year-old daughter and was eagerly anticipating the birth of her second child. Her family described her as a beautiful, smart, and loving individual who cherished her role as a mother.
In September 2023, while preparing for trial, William Hayes III pled guilty to second-degree murder and murder of an unborn child. He was sentenced to 216-272 months in prison. The courtroom was filled with York's family, who were visibly distraught and grief-stricken after losing both Tontoria and her unborn child. The case highlighted the devastating impact of domestic violence and the profound loss experienced by York's family and friends.
