For more than two decades, Charles County detectives knew her only as a mystery in a Bel Alton field. Now, that mystery has a name.
Authorities say the woman found dead in June 1998 near Bel Alton has been identified as LaQuanda Denise “Niecey” Williams. The Charles County Sheriff’s Office recently pushed out photos and new details on social media as investigators renew their public plea for tips in the still-open homicide case.
According to the Charles County Sheriff’s Office, the remains were discovered near Irving Road and Route 301 on June 18, 1998, and were long treated as a "Jane Doe" case until forensic work and family leads pointed to Williams. The agency laid out the update in a recent press release and posted images of Williams on Facebook. Detectives say finally putting a name to the victim closes one chapter of the mystery, even as the homicide itself remains unsolved.
How investigators finally gave her a name
An NBC4 segment marking the 25th anniversary of the discovery sparked a crucial tip that jump-started the identification process, The BayNet reports. From there, detectives gathered family photographs and chased new leads that led them to possible siblings. DNA analysis by Bode Technology confirmed the match on October 12, 2023, officially identifying the victim as LaQuanda Denise “Niecey” Williams.
Reward and how to tip
Local coverage says the sheriff’s office and Charles County Crime Solvers are offering up to $10,000 for information that leads to an arrest, WMAR reports. The Charles County Sheriff’s Office lists Detective Chris Shankster as the lead on the case. Anyone with information is asked to call 301-932-3037 or submit an anonymous tip to 1-866-411-TIPS, as outlined in the agency’s March 2024 release.
What investigators say now
Officials say finally learning Williams’ identity opens up new investigative avenues, including a closer look at her last known connections in Southeast D.C. and Charles County, the Southern Maryland Chronicle reports. Detectives are re-examining evidence and urging anyone who remembers unusual movements, conversations, or contacts from 1998 to come forward, stressing that even a small detail could help break the case.
