In the summer of 2022, the Memphis community was shaken by the violent and untimely death of Reverend Autura Eason-Williams, a 52-year-old female leader in the United Methodist Church. On the afternoon of July 18th, while in the driveway of her Whitehaven home, she was shot and killed during a carjacking. Emergency services responded to the scene and transported her to a local hospital, but she ultimately succumbed to her injuries.
The senseless act of violence that cut short the life of a beloved pastor, wife, and mother of four sent ripples of grief and outrage throughout the city and beyond.
The investigation into her murder moved swiftly, leading to the apprehension of several suspects. Within days, police arrested a 15-year-old, Miguel Andrade, who was identified as the alleged shooter. He was subsequently charged with first-degree murder, murder in the perpetration of a robbery, especially aggravated robbery, carjacking, and employment of a firearm during a dangerous felony. Another teenager, a 16-year-old, was also charged with theft in connection to the incident. The investigation continued to unfold, and a third suspect, 21-year-old Eduard Rodriguez-Tabora, was later arrested and charged with murder. A second 15-year-old, Brayan Carillo, was also taken into custody and faced similar murder and robbery-related charges.
The legal process for the accused individuals proceeded through the justice system. In a significant development, the Shelby County District Attorney's Office announced that Miguel Andrade would be tried as an adult. In February 2024, Andrade pleaded guilty to second-degree murder and carjacking, receiving a total sentence of 28 years in prison. Brayan Carillo, the other 15-year-old, also reached a plea agreement in juvenile court, admitting to his involvement, which would keep him in the custody of the Tennessee Department of Children's Services until the age of 19.
The final suspect, Eduard Rodriguez-Tabora, initially turned down a plea deal, but in September 2024, he pleaded guilty to second-degree murder. As part of his plea agreement, he was sentenced to 20 years in prison and will face deportation to Honduras upon completion of his sentence. During the court proceedings, it was revealed that Andrade was wearing an ankle monitor at the time of the pastor's killing. The resolution of the legal cases brought a measure of closure to a community still mourning the loss of a dedicated spiritual leader known for her advocacy for young people.
