Porscha Woods, a 33-year-old African American woman from Cleveland, Ohio, tragically lost her life on September 23, 2020. She was fatally shot in her apartment after calling 911 to report that individuals outside her home were threatening her with a gun. When police arrived, they found Woods dead from multiple gunshot wounds. The incident remains under investigation, and no suspects were immediately identified.
In January 2021, two suspects, Jannie Pace, 26, and Toriano Williams, 28,
were arrested in connection with Woods' death. Both were charged with aggravated murder, a first-degree felony. The arrests were made possible by the U.S. Marshals Service, who captured the fugitives in Cleveland. The case proceeded to trial, and in March 2024, Toriano Williams was convicted of aggravated murder, aggravated burglary, murder, felonious assault, and having weapons while under disability. Jannie Pace voluntarily dismissed her appeal in September 2023.
The tragic death of Porscha Woods has drawn attention to the issue of violence in Cleveland and the efforts of law enforcement to bring perpetrators to justice. The community continues to mourn the loss of Woods, who was remembered for her vibrant personality and dedication to her family and friends.
