Hennepin County Attorney’s Office secures murder conviction in killing of Savannah Ryan Williams

Hennepin County Attorney Mary Moriarty released the following statement after a Hennepin County jury returned a guilty verdict on a second-degree murder charge against Damarean Kaylon Bible, 25.

“This was a terrifying act of violence perpetrated against Savannah Ryan Williams, and I share in the community’s outrage,” Moriarty said. “This was not an act of self-defense. Mr. Bible caused immeasurable harm to Savannah’s family and the broader community, and following today’s verdict he will face a long sentence, which is necessary to protect public safety.

“My thoughts are with Savannah’s family and her loved ones as they will forever be impacted by this devastating loss. I’m grateful to the jury for their service, and I reaffirm this office’s commitment to improving community safety for transgender people and other members of marginalized and targeted communities.”

Sentencing is tentatively set for Sept. 11 at 8:45 a.m.

According to the complaint:

At approximately 9 a.m. on Nov. 29, 2023, Minneapolis Police responded to a report of someone not breathing on the 3000 block of 4^th Avenue South in Minneapolis. On arrival, officers discovered that the deceased victim, Savannah Ryan Williams, had suffered a fatal gunshot wound.

Witnesses reported hearing a gunshot near the scene shortly before 6 a.m.

Investigators used surveillance video to track the suspect in Williams’ death to an apartment building where they were able to identify Damarean Kaylon Bible.

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