Julian Williams, 31, was found dead in the backyard of a vacant home in the 1800 block of Heiman Street in Nashville on the morning of February 4, 2020. A citizen discovered his body about 8:30 a.m.; investigators believe the fatal shooting occurred before sunrise on nearby Scovel Street. Residents reported hearing gunshots around 4 a.m., and it appears Williams ran through a parking lot after being shot before collapsing in the yard where he was found.

Metro Nashville Police identified a suspect, Deshawn Williams, during the investigation. Authorities say the motive remained unclear but that repeated harassment and stalking of the victim’s family by Deshawn Williams was suspected to be connected to the killing. Deshawn Williams was arrested and faced multiple domestic-related charges including aggravated stalking and aggravated criminal trespassing; his prior record reportedly included a 2010 conviction for attempted second-degree murder.

The community and investigators urged anyone with information to come forward. If anyone knew Julian, his movements that night, or saw activity around Scovel or Heiman streets in the early hours of February 4, please share what you know.