A Charlotte man has pleaded guilty in the 2022 killing of a woman whose body was found outside an east Charlotte apartment complex, a case police have described as random. Tyquawon Parker admitted to second-degree murder, robbery with a dangerous weapon and possession of a firearm by a felon. The 30-year-old now faces a prison term that could reach 60 years. The victim, 32-year-old Ahylea Willard, was discovered on Oct. 23, 2022, behind a dumpster at the Heritage Park Apartments in east Charlotte.
Plea And Charges
Court filings show Parker entered guilty pleas on Friday to all three charges, according to Queen City News. Prosecutors are seeking the full 60-year maximum, and the filings indicate a judge did not grant a reduced term for time already served.
How Police Found Her
The Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department found Willard unresponsive on Oct. 23, 2022, and MEDIC pronounced her dead at the scene, according to WSOC-TV. Investigators said Willard’s black Mercedes-Benz C250 was taken during the incident, and detectives circulated information about the vehicle while asking the public for tips.
Investigation And Arrest
Authorities arrested Parker in Guilford County on Nov. 28, 2022, and charged him in the case, police said. At the time, investigators booked him on murder, robbery with a dangerous weapon and possession of a firearm by a felon, WBTV reported.
Family Reaction
Willard’s mother told WSOC-TV she did not know Parker and that the arrest brought some relief while leaving many questions unanswered. Family members and neighbors have continued to press investigators for information about the missing car and the circumstances around Willard’s final hours.
What’s Next In Court
Court records indicate Parker faces a maximum sentence of 60 years and that he was not given credit for time already served, per Queen City News. Police continue to ask anyone with information to call the CMPD tipline at 704-432-TIPS, WBTV noted.
