Michigan Phlebotomist Allegedly Dismembers Her Boyfriend
Federal authorities are still on the lookout for Tamera Renee Williams, a 46-year-old Michigan woman who has been wanted since 2018 for her alleged involvement in the brutal murder and dismemberment of her boyfriend, David Carter. The case, which has captured national attention, involves chilling details that continue to shock and intrigue the public. Williams was officially added to the U.S. Marshals Service's "15 Most Wanted" list in 2023, with a $25,000 reward now offered for information leading to her arrest. Let's unpack the story behind this ongoing manhunt, exploring who is involved, what happened, when and where it took place, and why the search remains urgent.
Who Are Tamera Williams and David Carter?
Tamera Renee Williams is a trained phlebotomist from Detroit, Michigan, with a background that might surprise you given the nature of the crime she is accused of. Besides her medical profession, she has also worked as a travel agent and is known to be a world traveler with connections across the United States. According to the U.S. Marshals Service, Williams is 5 feet 5 inches tall, approximately 190 pounds, and has brown eyes, black hair, and a large tattoo of roses on her left shoulder. She is also reportedly involved with the Order of the Eastern Star, a Freemason organization, which adds an unexpected layer to her profile.
David Carter, the victim, was 39 years old at the time of his death. Those who knew him remember him as a kind and hardworking man, a devoted father and a diligent business worker, as reported by PEOPLE. His family has expressed deep sorrow and a strong desire for justice, underscoring the human cost behind this grim case.
What Happened: A Heinous Crime
The crime itself is as disturbing as it is tragic. In September 2018, Williams allegedly fatally shot Carter in Melvindale, Michigan. Following the murder, she is accused of dismembering his body and disposing of the remains along Interstate 75 near Hancock, Ohio. The discovery of Carter's dismembered remains along this highway sent shockwaves through the community and law enforcement agencies alike.
A felony arrest warrant was issued against Williams on December 20, 2018, charging her with first-degree homicide, disinterring a dead body, and tampering with evidence. Despite these charges, Williams managed to evade capture and has remained on the run ever since.
When and Where: The Timeline and Locations
The timeline of events begins in September 2018, when the murder took place in Melvindale, a suburb of Detroit. By October 2018, authorities believe Williams fled Michigan, disappearing from public view. The remains of David Carter were found along I-75 near Hancock, Ohio, a location that highlights the interstate nature of this case and the challenges in tracking a fugitive who may be moving across state lines.
Since then, Williams has been a person of interest and a fugitive. The U.S. Marshals Service elevated the case to major status in 2021, and in 2023, she was added to the prestigious and highly selective "15 Most Wanted" list, signaling the seriousness of the manhunt and the priority placed on her capture.
Why the Ongoing Search and What's at Stake?
The search for Williams remains active because she has successfully eluded law enforcement for nearly seven years. Her ability to stay hidden is partly attributed to her professional skills and extensive travel history, which may have helped her blend into different communities or find work in medical clinics under the radar. Authorities warn that she should be considered armed and dangerous, emphasizing the risk she poses to public safety.
The U.S. Marshals Service and other law enforcement agencies are relentless in their pursuit, driven by a commitment to bring justice for David Carter and closure for his family. The $25,000 reward offered for information leading to Williams' arrest is a significant incentive, reflecting the high priority of this case. The public is urged to come forward with any tips, no matter how small, to aid in locating her.
The Bigger Picture: A Case That Captivated the Nation
This case has not only been a priority for law enforcement but has also captured the attention of the public and media. It has been featured on popular crime shows such as Fox's "America's Most Wanted," Investigation Discovery's "In Pursuit with John Walsh," and Netflix's "Unsolved Mysteries." These platforms have helped keep the story alive in the public consciousness, increasing the chances that someone with information might come forward.
References: Mich. Phlebotomist Allegedly Killed, Dismembered Boyfriend in 2018. She Remains One of the FBI's Most Wanted | Michigan woman accused of killing, dismembering boyfriend in 2018 added to 15 Most Wanted list | U.S. Marshals Elevate Eastern Michigan Woman Suspected of Murder, Dismembering Body to 15 Most Wanted List
