A TikTok true crime enthusiast played a crucial role in helping Florida police arrest a suspect in a tragic 2021 murder case involving a mother and her child.
St Petersburg: So, get this! TikTok actually helped police catch a guy who shot a mom in front of her kid. It’s wild how social media can make a difference, right?
This all goes back to July 31, 2021, when Joana Peca, just 27, was meeting her estranged boyfriend, Benjamin Williams, at a cemetery. He told her he wanted to see their baby, but instead, he shot her multiple times. Heartbreaking, right? Luckily, the kids were unharmed.
Fast forward three years, and a TikToker named Jasmeen Alexander posted about Joana’s case. Someone saw her video and recognized Williams, who had been hiding out in Mexico. They even went to the US Embassy to report it!
Thanks to that tip, the police were able to track him down and arrest him. Now, he’s facing serious charges, including first-degree murder and child abuse. He’s sitting in jail without bond.
Joana’s family is relieved. Her mom, Eleni, said it felt like an early Christmas gift to hear the news. She’s been waiting for this moment for so long. It’s tough to lose a loved one, and she’ll always miss Joana’s smile and the way she played with her kids.
St Petersburg’s police chief reassured the family that while nothing can replace their loss, at least a dangerous person is off the streets now. And Jasmeen? She’s just glad her TikTok platform helped bring some closure to Joana’s family. It’s amazing how a little social media can lead to justice!
