GRAND RAPIDS, MI – A 19-year-old Michigan man has been sentenced to 27 to 52 years in prison for the shooting death of 15-year-old La’Kyijah Williams, who was riding a scooter with friends while celebrating a birthday in downtown Grand Rapids.
Details of the Shooting
Josiah Tyree Pittman pleaded guilty in August 2025 to second-degree murder and felony firearms charges. Court records indicate that the shooting occurred just before midnight on May 18, 2024, when Pittman allegedly pulled out a gun and fired into the group of teens Williams was with.
The 15-year-old girl was struck in the head and later died. Surveillance video captured the incident, providing critical evidence for the prosecution.
No Warning or Exchange
Senior Assistant Prosecuting Attorney Blair Lachman emphasized that the shooting was unprovoked. “There was no exchange. There’s no exchange of words,” Lachman said. Pittman claimed he acted out of “fear or concern,” but the teens did not know him. Lachman noted that the claim lacked any supporting evidence and raised serious concerns about Pittman’s lack of remorse.
Defendant’s Statement in Court
During sentencing, Pittman apologized for his actions:
“Even though La’Kyijah was not my intended target, I was wrong, nonetheless, for letting the devil take control of my actions on that horrible day. I’m aware I can never give her parents their daughter back. I’m sorry… I understand them fully if they refuse to forgive me.”
Despite the apology, the court determined that the severity of the crime warranted a lengthy prison sentence.
Impact on the Victim’s Family
La’Kyijah Williams was a high school freshman with a “joyful spirit” who enjoyed basketball. Her death has deeply affected her family. Her mother, Shaqueta Matheson, spoke about the lasting trauma:
“I’ve struggled with fear, anxiety, and overwhelming stress. This tragedy has affected every part of my life. I’ve been unable to work and have developed health issues from this trauma.”
The community has also expressed shock and grief over the senseless nature of the attack.
Call to Action
This tragic case highlights the dangers of unprovoked gun violence among teens. What steps do you think communities and schools should take to prevent similar tragedies? Share your thoughts in the comments below and join the conversation on keeping our neighborhoods safe.
