SAN DIEGO, Calif. — A 21-year-old man from Arizona has entered a not guilty plea concerning the deaths of his former girlfriend and their newborn daughter. Authorities allege that Trevon Williams traveled to San Diego with the intent of confronting Jariah Edwards, 17, who was visiting the area with family.
The investigation began as a homicide case after Edwards was shot on May 30 outside a vacation rental house in the Bay Park neighborhood. Initially hospitalized in critical condition, she underwent an emergency cesarean section to deliver her baby girl. Tragically, both Edwards and the newborn later succumbed to injuries, prompting prosecutors to increase charges against Williams.
San Diego police responded to reports of the shooting around 1:10 a.m. Officers found Edwards unresponsive with a gunshot wound to the head. She was already 32 weeks pregnant at the time. Emergency responders attempted life-saving measures before transporting her to a medical facility, where she and her baby were treated. Despite efforts to save her, Edwards died shortly after arrival.
According to prosecutors, Williams learned of Edwards’ whereabouts and used a ruse involving flower deliveries to lure her outside. Witnesses reported he commandeered a rideshare service and waited near the rental home, exuding premeditated intent. When the first delivery brought Edwards outside accompanied by a family member, prosecutors say he remained hidden before ordering a second delivery that drew her out alone.
After the shooting, authorities allege Williams fled the scene and attempted to conceal his identity by changing clothes. Police apprehended him a few hours later, recovering a semi-automatic weapon during his arrest. The connection between the firearm and the shooting remains under investigation, as detectives process forensic evidence from the scene.
The plight of Edwards’ newborn, identified as Riyary E., came under scrutiny when she succumbed to severe brain injury due to oxygen deprivation after her emergency delivery. Following the child’s death on June 7, prosecutors added a second murder charge against Williams. At a court hearing, it was revealed that he is the father of the child.
Witnesses have described Edwards as a devoted mother-to-be, noting that concerns had been raised about her relationship with Williams. Friends shared that Edwards had cut off communication with him, reportedly due to previous threats and instances of domestic violence. Prosecutors characterized the shooting as a calculated act, suggesting that Williams had a motive tied to the troubled relationship.
An audio recording presented in court further complicates the narrative. Prosecutors allege that Williams bragged about the shooting in a message following the incident. Although specific audio details were redacted, such evidence could prove pivotal in establishing intent. The full context, including the identity of the recipient, remains undisclosed.
In addition to homicide charges, Williams faces accusations related to weapons possession, including an extended magazine and the use of a modified firearm. As the legal proceedings unfold, prosecutors will need to substantiate these firearms allegations separately.
Currently held without bail, Williams is due back in court on July 23 for a preliminary hearing. Family members hope for justice as they navigate through the tragic aftermath of this event, which has sparked outrage and mourning across two states.