A Philadelphia teenager has been convicted for his role in a terrifying hour-long carjacking spree that terrorized city residents in early 2024. Symair Carson-Williams, 19, also known as “Lil Meer,” was found guilty on Thursday of conspiracy to commit carjacking, three counts of carjacking, and three counts of using a firearm during a crime of violence.
The conviction followed a trial that detailed a series of brazen armed robberies committed in rapid succession.
The evidence presented at trial painted a chilling picture of Carson-Williams and his accomplices, who stole three vehicles at gunpoint in less than sixty minutes.
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The spree began with the theft of a blue Honda CR-V, used as a getaway vehicle in subsequent robberies. Just 90 minutes later, the group targeted a 67-year-old man at a gas station, forcing him to the ground and stealing his BMW.
They then carjacked a 34-year-old man, stealing his Chevrolet Equinox and personal possessions, before culminating their spree by stealing a Honda Accord from a 54-year-old man at another gas station.
Video surveillance, cell phone data, forensic evidence, and victim testimony all played a crucial role in linking Carson-Williams to the violent crimes.
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Acting United States Attorney Nelson S.T. Thayer, Jr., condemned the defendant’s actions, stating, “Symair Carson-Williams and his co-conspirators thought nothing of terrorizing three innocent victims who’d just been going about their morning. People in this city shouldn’t have to live in fear every time they get behind the wheel.”
Eric DeGree, Special Agent in Charge of the ATF’s Philadelphia Field Division, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the use of “ATF’s unique forensic and investigative tools” to bring the perpetrators to justice.
Carson-Williams now faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 21 years in prison, with his official sentencing date yet to be determined.
The case was investigated by the ATF and the Philadelphia Police Department as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods, a program aimed at reducing violent crime and gun violence.
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