Willie Gaither was shot and killed in the pre-dawn hours of Saturday, October 26, 2002, at about 5:30 a.m. The fatal shooting occurred at 1325 5th Street, NE, Washington, D.C. He was 60 and survived by his wife Shirley M. Gaither, son Nathaniel, mother Willie Mae Pate, and siblings Alfred Pate and Michelle Moss. Friends and relatives held a memorial service at Isle of Patmos Baptist Church nearly a week after his death.

The Metropolitan Police Department has kept the investigation open. No arrests or publicly identified suspects have been announced, and the case is considered cold. A reward of up to $25,000 is being offered for information leading to an arrest and conviction.

If anyone knew Willie, saw activity near 1325 5th Street, NE on October 26, 2002, or has information that could help, please come forward.