On August 2, 2023, at approximately 7:07 a.m., Greensboro police officers responded to a report of a body found in the 100 block of South Church Street. Upon arrival, they discovered 32-year-old Tiffany Cleashawn Holmes-Williams deceased inside the abandoned former News & Record building, having suffered a fatal gunshot wound.
The building, which had been vacant for several years, was known to be frequented by individuals experiencing homelessness.
Despite previous efforts to secure the property, including boarding up entrances, unauthorized access continued to occur.
In the days following the discovery, family and friends held a vigil in Governmental Plaza to honor Holmes-Williams' memory and to call attention to the issues of homelessness and mental health. Her mother, Aliss Thomasson, expressed profound grief over the loss of her daughter, who had been struggling with homelessness and mental health challenges.
On September 19, 2023, Greensboro police arrested 24-year-old Marquease Shropshire in connection with Holmes-Williams' death. He was charged with first-degree murder, assault with a deadly weapon with intent to kill or inflict serious injury, robbery with a dangerous weapon, larceny of a firearm, discharge of a weapon into an occupied property, and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. Shropshire was taken into custody and held without bond at the Guilford County Jail.
The tragic death of Tiffany Holmes-Williams has prompted discussions among Greensboro officials regarding the safety and security of abandoned buildings in the city. The former News & Record building, in particular, has been highlighted as a site requiring attention to prevent future incidents.
As the legal proceedings against Shropshire continue, the community remains vigilant in seeking justice for Holmes-Williams and addressing the broader societal issues underscored by her untimely passing. Authorities encourage anyone with additional information related to the case to contact Greensboro/Guilford Crime Stoppers at (336) 373-1000.
