Copyright M Live Michigan
FLINT, MI – Mary Williams will never forget the moments she shared with her sister, Taswala, as they grew up together in the same bedroom. She remembered Taswala calling her “cute” after getting dressed, or the nights planned to go out when they ended up laughing together in the car instead. Those memories have become bittersweet since Taswala was brutally attacked in downtown Flint on her 50th birthday. She died two days later, and Mary says coping has been nearly impossible -- especially because justice has yet to be served. On Thursday, Oct. 29, Williams’ family members renewed their plea for answers during a news conference at the Flint Police Department, held in partnership with Crime Stoppers of Flint & Genesee County. Taswala Williams was found during the early morning hours of her 50th birthday in the 500 block of King Avenue on July 1. She had been severely beaten and stabbed multiple times and later died at a hospital. “Having to pull the plug was very difficult for us,” Mary said. “But to be absent from the body is to be present with the Lord. But justice is going to be served here on Earth as well.” Police believe the assault happened between 3 a.m. and 6 a.m. on July 1. A $2,500 reward is being offered for information leading to an arrest. “Somebody knows what happened,” Mary said. “And we’re begging you to come forward.” Taswala’s sisters described her as a loving, caring woman -- a devoted mother and friend who faced mental health challenges but never lost her empathy. “She was a positive light – always happy and always laughing,” Mary said. “She had great empathy for people. Even if she was in need, she would give you her last.” Crime Stoppers of Flint & Genesee County Executive Director Julie Lopez echoed Mary’s plea for justice. “Somebody knows something and they need to come forward,” Lopez said.
