Death of 7-Year-Old Nia Williams Ruled Homicide; Mother Naikishia Williams Charged with Murder
RIVIERA BEACH, FL — Heartbreak and outrage have gripped the Riviera Beach community following the tragic death of 7-year-old Nia Williams, who was found unresponsive in her home on April 28, 2025. Despite being rushed to St. Mary’s Medical Center, Nia was pronounced dead shortly after arrival. An autopsy later revealed that she had died from blunt force trauma to the abdomen, and her death was ruled a homicide.
After an intensive two-month investigation, Naikishia Williams, Nia’s 31-year-old mother, was arrested and charged with first-degree murder and aggravated child abuse. She is currently being held without bond and is expected to face prosecution to the fullest extent of the law.
Family’s Warnings Went Unheeded
Loved ones say the tragedy could have been prevented. Dawn Rolle, Nia’s godmother and longtime caretaker, revealed that she and others had contacted child protection services just 12 days before Nia’s death, expressing grave concerns about the child’s well-being.
“We told them Naikishia was abusive,” Rolle said. “We told them Nia and the other kids weren’t eating, that they weren’t safe. Nobody listened. And now Nia is gone.”
The report, according to family, detailed concerns of malnourishment and physical abuse. Despite this warning, no intervention occurred before Nia’s death.
Troubling History
Naikishia Williams is no stranger to the child welfare system. Though specifics remain sealed, multiple sources have confirmed that there were prior allegations and investigations involving her treatment of her children. This is the first time she has faced criminal charges.
Family members said Naikishia had recently regained custody of Nia, despite objections from her former foster guardians and relatives who believed she posed a danger to her children.
Remembering Nia
Described as a bright and sweet-natured child, Nia Williams loved coloring, music, and playing with her siblings. A growing memorial now sits outside her home on West 15th Street, where neighbors, classmates, and community members have left flowers, toys, and candles.
“Nia had so much potential,” said a neighbor. “She was just a baby. This is devastating.”
A vigil in her memory is being planned, and many are using the hashtag #JusticeForNia to demand systemic change and accountability.
Justice and Accountability
The Palm Beach County State Attorney’s Office has expressed its commitment to holding Naikishia Williams accountable for the violence that led to her daughter’s death.
“This is a horrific case of betrayal by someone who was supposed to protect her child,” a spokesperson said. “We will fight to ensure justice is served for Nia.”
Authorities continue to investigate the case and are asking anyone with additional information or prior concerns about Naikishia Williams’ behavior to contact the Riviera Beach Police Department or Crime Stoppers of Palm Beach County at 1-800-458-TIPS (8477).