In the autumn of 2017, the tranquility of the upscale Harbor Town neighborhood on Mud Island in Memphis, Tennessee, was shattered by a senseless act of violence that claimed the life of 56-year-old Susan Grissom. On November 7th, an intruder, later identified as Kurtrell Williams, entered her home on Island Drive through an open garage. What began as a search for something to eat, according to Williams' later testimony, escalated into a fatal confrontation.
In the kitchen of her own home, Susan attempted to defend herself with a knife, but was tragically shot multiple times by Williams. After the shooting, he stole her credit card and a small amount of cash before fleeing the scene. The grim discovery was made by her husband, Scott Grissom, who immediately contacted emergency services.
The murder of Susan Grissom, a woman described by friends and family as beautiful inside and out and someone who lit up a room with her smile, sent shockwaves through the close-knit community. A graduate of Briarcrest High School and the University of Mississippi, she had built a successful 25-year career as a sales representative for Johnson & Johnson. Her life was characterized by her devotion to her faith, her love for her family, and her passion for travel, dining, and Memphis Grizzlies basketball. She was an active member of the Downtown Church and was known for her generosity.
The investigation into her death moved swiftly. Surveillance footage from a gas station where an attempt was made to use Susan's stolen bank card provided a crucial lead for investigators. This, combined with witness statements, led to the identification and arrest of Kurtrell Williams just three days after the murder. He was taken into custody at a residence in northeast Memphis. Williams was subsequently charged with first-degree murder, especially aggravated burglary, and especially aggravated robbery.
In July 2022, Kurtrell Williams pleaded guilty to the lesser charge of second-degree murder. He was sentenced to 35 years in prison without the possibility of parole, bringing a legal conclusion to a case that had deeply affected the Memphis community. The tragic loss of Susan Grissom serves as a heartbreaking reminder of the devastating impact of violent crime.
