Staff Report

GAINESVILLE, Fla. – A 19-year-old named Elijah Levin Williams was taken into custody yesterday after allegedly firing a gun during a confrontation at Kay Jewelers. He now faces charges of illegally carrying a concealed weapon.

The incident unfolded around 4:45 p.m. on February 14, when authorities received a call about a gunshot at the Oaks Mall. According to the investigation, Williams had escorted a woman to Kay Jewelers for a ring resizing. They were followed into the store by three males. A heated argument ensued, escalating into a scuffle during which Williams reportedly drew a gun from his waistband and fired a shot, shattering a glass display case.

Following the shooting, all four individuals fled the scene, and the firearm was subsequently discovered in a nearby retention pond. Williams was captured at 500 NW 62nd Street and identified as the shooter through both eyewitness accounts and surveillance footage.

After being read his rights, Williams allegedly confessed to carrying the gun and tossing it away as he made his escape.

Williams is currently on probation for a previous incident where he fled from a traffic stop, reaching speeds over 100 mph in September 2024. His probation conditions prohibit firearm possession, and at 19, he is also legally barred from carrying a concealed weapon.

Williams has been charged with illegally carrying a concealed firearm and violating probation. He has one felony conviction (non-violent). Judge Tatum Davis set bail at $250,000 on the new charge and ordered him held without bail until the probation violation is resolved.

Articles about arrests are based on reports from law enforcement agencies. The charges listed are taken from the arrest report and/or court records and are only accusations. All suspects are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.