Sheila Denise Prater, a 45-year-old African American woman from Dallas, was found dead in her home on the 3400 block of Keyridge Drive near Paul Quinn College on March 3, 2019. Her son, Travonte Prater, discovered the body and called 911. Family describe Sheila as a loving mother and grandmother who was generous and kind-hearted.

Victor Williams, described as Sheila’s boyfriend and with a history of domestic violence with her, was arrested and charged in the case but a 2021 jury returned a not guilty verdict. No other suspects have been publicly named and the case has since gone cold. The Dallas Police Department has renewed efforts and Sgt. Otha Hampton has appealed to the public for information; family member Tiara Jones has pushed for renewed attention, saying the initial investigation was too narrowly focused and communication was poor.

If anyone knew Sheila or has information that could help solve her murder, please contact Sgt. Hampton at 671-3654 or email [email protected].