Where is Steven Williams Now? 2024 Update & Background

Steven Williams, born and raised in the United States, led a life that appeared outwardly normal to many who knew him. He pursued a career in the military, eventually joining the Air Force, where he met Tricia Todd. They married and had a daughter together, but the marriage was marked by tension and conflict. Williams had a history of abusive behavior towards Tricia, which often remained hidden from public view.

Despite his outward appearance of a disciplined military man, his darker side surfaced in private. Tricia documented these behaviors in her journal, revealing a pattern of domestic abuse that included physical violence and threats. This ultimately led to the dissolution of their marriage and Tricia seeking a new start in her hometown.

The Crime: Planning and Execution

On April 26, 2016, Williams meticulously executed a gruesome plan to murder his ex-wife, Tricia Todd. He had traveled from his Air Force base in North Carolina to Florida under the guise of spending time with his daughter. However, his true intent was to eliminate Tricia and gain full custody of their child. The day before, he spent time with Tricia and their daughter, appearing normal and giving no indication of his sinister intentions.

On the night of the murder, Williams attacked Tricia, initially attempting to strangle her before resorting to blunt force trauma. He finally choked her to death. Williams then dismembered her body using a chainsaw, a tool he had purchased in advance for this very purpose, and placed her remains in a tub filled with acid. He buried the tub in a hole he had pre-dug in the Hungryland Wildlife Reserve, a further indication of his premeditation.

The Legal Proceedings and Sentence

Williams denied any involvement in Tricia’s disappearance at first, but mounting evidence eventually forced him to admit to the murder. He tried to mislead the authorities with changing versions of the story but finally confessed to the crime in its entirety. His confession detailed the calculated and cruel nature of his actions, leaving a lasting impact on those involved in the investigation.

In exchange for leading authorities to Tricia’s remains, Williams was offered a plea deal that reduced his charge from first-degree to second-degree murder. He was sentenced to 35 years in prison. Although the plea deal provided some sense of closure for Tricia’s family, many believed it was insufficient given the premeditated and brutal nature of his crime.

Where is Steven Williams Now?

Steven Williams is currently serving his 35-year prison sentence for the murder of Tricia Todd. The plea deal spared him from facing the death penalty but has confined him for most of his remaining life. His incarceration, while a relief to many who feared his potential for further violence, also underscores the importance of vigilance in preventing domestic violence and protecting potential victims.

The case of Steven Williams serves as a grim reminder of the complexities and dangers inherent in domestic violence situations. His calculated crime has left a lasting impact on Tricia’s family, friends, and the community at large, emphasizing the need for continued efforts to address and prevent such tragedies in the future.

More 20/20: The Hungryland Homicide

Where is Steven Williams Now? 2024 Update & Background

The Crime: Planning and Execution

The Legal Proceedings and Sentence