Nathanuel Jamar Wills, a 48-year-old African American man, tragically lost his life on December 20, 2024, in Oakland, California. His death was the result of a fatal shooting that occurred during a heated child custody dispute. The incident took place on Fairmount Avenue, north of Lake Merritt, and involved his brother, Jason Markel Wills, who was also killed in the altercation.
The alleged perpetrator, 33-year-old Tommy Ramsey, was reportedly engaged in a custody exchange with his
child's mother when the dispute escalated into violence. Ramsey is accused of fatally shooting both Nathanuel and Jason during the confrontation. Authorities have charged Ramsey with two counts of murder, along with special allegations related to the use of a firearm, personal and intentional discharge of a firearm causing great bodily injury, and two prior strikes connected to the deaths of the Wills brothers.
The Alameda County District Attorney's Office has stated that if convicted on all charges, Ramsey could face up to 130 years to life in prison, plus an additional eight months. His plea hearing is scheduled to take place soon. Officials have not disclosed further details regarding the circumstances leading up to the shooting or the current welfare of the child involved in the custody dispute.
Nathanuel Wills had previously been arrested earlier in 2024 for various offenses, including possession of a controlled substance, possession of drug paraphernalia, and shoplifting. However, these prior legal issues were unrelated to the tragic events that led to his death.
This case underscores the devastating consequences of gun violence in domestic disputes, leaving families shattered and communities mourning the loss of loved ones. The investigation remains ongoing as authorities seek justice for Nathanuel and Jason Wills.
