On December 17, 2023, at approximately 4:30 p.m., Raleigh police responded to an incident on Interstate 440 between Glenwood Avenue and Western Boulevard. Upon arrival, officers discovered a white cargo van with multiple bullet holes. The driver, identified as 44-year-old Robert Williams of Raleigh, was found deceased at the scene.
Robert Williams was a well-known handyman in the Raleigh and Chapel Hill areas, admired for his generosity and positive demeanor. Friends recall his habit of bringing doughnuts or sweets to job sites, especially when children were present. He is survived by his partner, Jay Maldonado, and family members in the Triangle and Baltimore.
In the course of their investigation, Raleigh police sought information about a gray SUV/crossover-type vehicle seen near the crime scene. The following day, they located and interviewed the driver of the vehicle. As of December 19, 2023, no charges had been filed, and authorities continued to seek additional witnesses to shed light on the circumstances surrounding Williams' death.
The community has been deeply affected by Williams' untimely passing. A GoFundMe campaign was initiated to support his family during this difficult time. Friends and clients remember him as a kind, charismatic individual who made significant contributions to their lives through his work and personal interactions.
As the investigation remains active, Raleigh police urge anyone with information or video footage from the area between 4 p.m. and 4:25 p.m. on December 17 to come forward. They can contact the Raleigh Police Department at 919-996-3335 or provide information anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 919-996-1193.
