Melinda Bibbs, a 60-year-old African American woman, was tragically killed on New Year's Eve, December 31, 2019, in Houston, Texas. Melinda had planned to spend the evening watching movies with her 30-year-old daughter, Ebony, and her infant granddaughter. However, just five minutes before midnight, shots were fired through the window of her home, resulting in Melinda's death and critically wounding Ebony. The baby was unharmed.
Melinda was described by her family as a beloved figure who had no enemies and was the life of the party. Her death left a significant void in the lives of her family members, who have been seeking justice for her untimely demise.
The investigation into Melinda Bibbs' death revealed that the shooting was believed to be connected to an earlier altercation between Ebony and her ex-boyfriend, Antonio Williams. Williams, a 36-year-old repeat violent offender, was charged with the murder of Melinda Bibbs. He had a history of felony convictions, including charges of felon in possession of a weapon and previous violent offenses. Despite being on bond for the murder charge, Williams continued to engage in criminal activities. In March 2022, he was charged with the murder of Melinda Bibbs, and his bond was initially set at half a million dollars but was later reduced to $115,000, which he posted.
Williams' criminal activities did not cease after his release on bond. In September 2023, he pleaded guilty to the charge of felon in possession of a weapon and received a two-year plea deal. However, just two months after his release from prison, Williams was involved in another violent incident, resulting in the death of his girlfriend, 33-year-old Myanda Thomas. Williams was subsequently charged with her murder as well. The case of Melinda Bibbs remains a poignant reminder of the impact of violent crime on families and communities, and her family continues to seek justice for her death.