On November 9, 2024, 22-year-old African American woman Jeanessa Williams was fatally shot in Stockton, California. A native of Lathrop, she had traveled from Texas to attend her uncle's funeral earlier that day. She was staying at the Red Roof Inn on West Fremont Street. Around 8:45 p.m., police responded to reports of a shooting at the motel, where they found Williams suffering from a gunshot wound. She was transported to a local hospital but succumbed to her injuries.
Williams' family described her as a joyful and positive individual who loved life and cherished time with her loved ones. She had spent her final day surrounded by family, celebrating the life of their beloved uncle by dancing, laughing, and cherishing their time together. Her family has no idea why this happened and is desperate for answers. They think it could have been a robbery gone wrong, but Stockton Police have not yet released any suspect description or a motive for the killing.
In February 2025, the Stockton Police Department announced the arrest of 18-year-old Damian Ortega in connection with Williams' death. Ortega was apprehended by Alameda County deputies in Hayward and booked into the San Joaquin County Jail on charges of homicide and robbery. The investigation into the incident remains ongoing.
Williams' death marked Stockton's 44th homicide in 2024. Her family continues to seek justice and urges anyone with information to come forward. They remember Jeanessa as someone who enjoyed every moment of life and did not take it for granted.
