Keniyah Williams: 19-Year-Old Jasper, Texas Woman Killed; Boyfriend Arrested

Keniyah Williams, 19, of Woodville, Texas, was a multi-talented young woman who was working toward a nursing degree at Angelina College. Williams, who played basketball and ran track in high school, was also a mother to a 2-year-old and a 2-month-old.

Police Chief Garrett Foster said that Williams was shot late Tuesday, May 27, 2025 inside the vehicle of 23-year-old Kristopher Tayshaun Drayton, whom law enforcement has identified as her boyfriend and the father of their 2-month-old child.

Drayton told police that he and Williams were arguing in the car when his firearm “went off.” Drayton reportedly drove Williams to Jasper Memorial Hospital, where she died from a gunshot wound to the head. The children, who were in the vehicle as well, were unharmed.

Drayton is behind bars facing a manslaughter charge in connection with Williams’ death.

Williams’ stepfather, John Lacey, posted that that his daughter was a loving mother who had so much life to live. 

"I never thought in a million years that you would be leaving us this soon," John posted. "I'm truly going to miss you, baby girl. I love you. Rest well, sweetheart."

The victim’s mom also posted her thoughts about the death of her daughter.

"Waking up hoping this was all a dream, or furthermore, a nightmare," said Ashley Lacey. "Never in a million years would I think that I would ever have to bury my own child. Please, please, keep me, her kids (babies), and her siblings, as well as the rest of her family, in your prayers. I'm okay for now, but Keniyah was my baby girl and I will never completely recover from this nightmare."

Drayton’s bond has been set at $500,000.

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If you or someone you know is having suicidal thoughts or practicing self-harm, contact the the U.S. National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 800-273-TALK (8255) any time. Online live chat is also available. Crisis Text Line also provides free, 24/7, confidential support via text message to people in crisis when they dial 741741. If you are experiencing domestic abuse, for assistance, call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233.