A Georgia man is facing murder charges after allegedly gunning down his estranged wife and her 7-year-old niece in a violent attack at an apartment they shared with family. William Almond, 43, is accused of killing 29-year-old Tomekia Pullins and her nephew, 7-year-old Dior Scott, in a horrific shooting on Friday. The tragic incident came after Almond allegedly made violent threats, including vowing to “pop every kid” and “kill everyone” at the home, according to Pullins’ mother.
The Lead-Up to the Tragedy
Before the shooting, Pullins’ family was in the process of serving Almond with divorce papers. Nakita Bruce, Pullins’ mother, told local news that Almond had repeatedly threatened violence. Bruce revealed that Almond had previously warned the family that if his child wasn’t returned, he would harm everyone in the house.
“We couldn’t find him when we were trying to serve him papers,” Bruce explained. “He had said many times that he would pop every kid in here if they didn’t give him his child. He said he would kill everyone.”
The Fatal Shooting
On the day of the shooting, Almond allegedly tried to enter the apartment but was unable to get in. Security footage shows him firing through a window, striking Pullins and her niece with gunfire. Police say Almond fired multiple shots inside the apartment, hitting both victims before fleeing the scene. DeKalb County police later apprehended Almond without incident.
The tragic loss has left the family devastated. Bruce described the horrific moment when she learned of the shooting. “They didn’t deserve this,” she said through tears. “My daughter and my grandson are gone.”
Police Response and Investigation
DeKalb County police acted swiftly, and officials praised their thorough investigation. “I want to thank the DeKalb County Police Department for its swift and diligent work in apprehending the suspect in this heartbreaking case,” said DeKalb County CEO Lorraine Cochran-Johnson. “No family should ever have to endure such an unthinkable tragedy. As a mother and as your CEO, I grieve alongside our community and extend my deepest condolences to all those affected.”
Almond was arrested and appeared in court over the weekend. He was informed that he would have to wait for a magistrate judge to be assigned to his case before any decisions regarding bond could be made.
Community Reactions and Support
The community has been left in shock by the brutality of the crime. DeKalb County officials, including CEO Lorraine Cochran-Johnson, expressed their condolences and pledged support for the grieving family. “We remain committed to pursuing justice and providing support to the family in their time of need,” she said.
This tragic event has highlighted the dangers of domestic violence, especially when violent threats are not taken seriously. The family is left mourning the loss of two loved ones, and authorities are working to ensure that Almond is held accountable for his actions.