A Tennessee man, Duriell Williams, has been arrested and charged with aggravated assault and child endangerment after allegedly dangling his 5-month-old daughter over a balcony railing and threatening to shoot the mother and children in her apartment.
The Incident
The incident occurred on June 6, 2024, when Williams, 21, visited the mother of his child at her apartment in Washington Manor, Memphis. According to the Shelby County criminal affidavit, Williams asked the woman to step outside and talk.
Once outside, he reportedly asked to hold their baby and then threatened, “You don’t think I’d throw her over the railing.”
Williams allegedly dangled the infant’s feet over the second-story balcony, knowingly placing the baby in immediate danger. The mother managed to take the child from Williams and run back into the apartment, but the threats were far from over.
Further Threats and Escalation
Williams reportedly pulled out a gun and threatened to “shoot up the apartment,” which was occupied by several other children. The mother, fearing for her safety and the safety of the children, agreed to meet Williams outside again.
Once outside, Williams allegedly pointed the gun at the woman and asked, “Are you ready to die?” However, when he noticed neighbors in the vicinity, he left the scene.
Arrest and Charges
Williams was later arrested and charged with aggravated assault and child endangerment. He is being held in the Shelby County Jail on a $100,500 bond. His next court date is scheduled for August 4, 2024.
Duriell Williams’ actions put both his infant daughter and the mother of his child in extreme danger. Thankfully, no one was injured in the incident, but the case serves as a reminder of the importance of protecting children and addressing domestic violence and threats.
