Yesterday, July 30, deputies from the Citrus County Sheriff’s Office responded to a call for service referencing a weapons incident along East Anna Jo Drive in Inverness. Upon arrival, Malik Williams, 19, of Inverness, who could be seen holding an unknown object, later identified as a 9mm handgun, fled the scene and led deputies on a brief foot pursuit.
During the subsequent investigation, it was revealed that Williams aimed the firearm at the victim, an 18-year-old male, and pulled the trigger, though no round exited the chamber. The victim said he heard a “click” when Williams
pulled the trigger.
Witnesses and video evidence corroborated the victim’s account. Williams, who was apprehended by deputies shortly after fleeing the scene, denied the presence of a firearm. However, deputies soon recovered the
discarded weapon, which had a live round in the chamber.
Further investigation revealed that the incident started when the victim’s 14-year-old brother confronted Williams about how he had been disrespecting their 16-year-old sister. After Williams threatened to fight the younger
brother, the victim stepped in to engage in a fist fight, at which point Williams allegedly retrieved the firearm and pointed it at the victim.
Based on the evidence and witness statements, deputies established probable cause to arrest Williams on the charges of Attempted First Degree Murder with a Firearm and Resisting an Officer without Violence. Williams has been
transported to the Citrus County Detention Facility for booking and processing, and will be 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. “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.”
