Quick Action by Sheriff’s Deputies and Witnesses Leads to Arrest of Armed Individual
CITRUS COUNTY, Fla. – A 19-year-old Inverness man was arrested Wednesday, following an attempted murder incident on East Anna Jo Drive. Malik Williams is facing charges of Attempted First Degree Murder with a Firearm and Resisting an Officer without Violence after allegedly pointing a 9mm handgun at an 18-year-old male and pulling the trigger.
According to the Citrus County Sheriff’s Office (CCSO), deputies responded to a weapons incident call when they encountered Williams, who was seen holding what was later identified as a 9mm handgun. Williams immediately fled the scene, leading deputies on a brief foot pursuit before being apprehended.
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The subsequent investigation revealed a harrowing account from the victim, who stated that Williams aimed the firearm at him and pulled the trigger. The victim reported hearing a “click,” indicating that a round did not exit the chamber. Witness statements and video evidence corroborated this account. Despite Williams denying the presence of a firearm, deputies quickly located the discarded weapon, which was found to have a live round in the chamber.
Further details uncovered during the investigation indicated the incident stemmed from an earlier confrontation. The victim’s 14-year-old brother had confronted Williams about disrespecting their 16-year-old sister. When Williams allegedly threatened to fight the younger brother, the victim intervened, intending to engage in a fist fight. It was at this point that Williams reportedly retrieved the firearm and pointed it at the victim.
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Based on the evidence and witness statements, deputies established probable cause to arrest Williams. He has been transported to the Citrus County Detention Facility for booking and processing and is being held with no bond per the bond schedule.
“Great work to our deputies for quickly and safely apprehending this dangerous individual, ensuring the safety of our community,” said Sheriff David Vincent.
He also highlighted the role of community cooperation. “This case is a shining example of stronger together. Thanks to the witnesses who acted quickly and stepped forward to share crucial information, Williams was apprehended before he could seriously injure anyone.”
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