On March 26, 2023, at approximately 9:16 a.m., the Wilson County Sheriff's Office responded to a report of an unresponsive individual in a ditch along Landfill Road near U.S. Highway 264 Alternate East in Wilson, North Carolina. Upon arrival, deputies discovered 14-year-old Bernard Williams, who was pronounced dead at the scene. The initial investigation determined that Williams had been fatally shot at the location where he was found.
The following day, March 27, 2023, authorities arrested 19-year-old Rasheem Tytavious Battle in connection with Williams' death. Battle was taken into custody at his residence on Briggs Street in Wilson without incident and charged with first-degree murder. A search of Battle's home led to the seizure of items related to the crime.
Bernard Williams, affectionately known as "Tankman" by his family, was a student at Daniels Learning Center in Wilson. He was remembered for his friendly nature, sense of humor, and ability to make friends easily. His untimely death deeply affected the local community, prompting vigils and memorials in his honor.
Following his arrest, Battle appeared in Wilson County District Court, where he was formally charged with first-degree murder. He was held without bond at the Wilson County Detention Center. The case drew significant attention, with heightened emotions observed during court proceedings.
The tragic death of Bernard Williams underscored concerns about youth violence in the Wilson community. Local authorities and community leaders emphasized the importance of addressing underlying issues contributing to such incidents and called for increased efforts to provide support and resources for at-risk youth.
