Authorities in North Carolina have apprehended a suspect in connection with the disappearance and tragic death of 25-year-old Heather Williams. Williams, a Fayetteville resident, was last seen on January 4th, entering a light-colored four-door sedan around 10 p.m. near Berkshire Road. Six days later, on January 10th, her body was discovered in a wooded area near the intersection of Newark Avenue and State Avenue.

The Fayetteville Police Department (FPD) identified the suspect as 30-year-old Tyrell Jaquez Siermons, also of Fayetteville. Siermons has been charged with first-degree murder. Court records reveal Siermons has an extensive criminal record in Cumberland County, including charges of attempted murder, attempted kidnapping, robbery, and weapons offenses. He was also reportedly on probation at the time of the alleged murder and faces an out-of-state probation violation charge.

The FPD has not disclosed the nature of the relationship between Williams and Siermons, but indicated the vehicle Williams was last seen entering played a key role in identifying Siermons as a suspect. Williams’ family revealed she had a cognitive impairment stemming from a car accident in 2015. Her sister, Mary Williams, shared with local news outlet WRAL that she had contacted a man from Heather’s phone records who matched the description of Siermons and the vehicle. This individual allegedly admitted to meeting Williams online and spending time with her. Mary believes this man is Siermons.

Siermons is currently being held without bond at the Cumberland County Detention Center. The FPD urges anyone with information regarding the case to contact Detective E. Alrafai or Crimestoppers.