Pamela Williams, a beloved 43-year-old store manager, was the embodiment of kindness and generosity in her Amhurst Subdivision community and beyond. However, her untimely death in a brutal home invasion sent shockwaves across the region and exposed a notorious burglary ring operating within the neighborhood. This chilling case was later documented in Investigation Discovery’s ‘Murder Calls: Death Comes Knocking.’
Who was Pamela Williams?
A native of Mobile, Alabama, Pamela R. Williams built a successful life in Georgia after graduating from high school in 1988. She earned her Master’s degree in Business Administration and held a managerial role at Target for over a decade. Her altruistic nature was evident in her actions – she once donated a kidney to her sister. Tragically, her life took a devastating turn on the night of November 30, 2013.
The Night of the Home Invasion
In the comfort of her home in the serene Amhurst Subdivision, Pamela faced a horrifying intrusion. An assailant broke into her home, prompting her to dial 911 in desperation. She sought refuge in a closet while the dispatcher tried to comfort her. Unfortunately, during the call, she was shot at close range. The assailants also beat her and left her unconscious. When authorities arrived, they found Pamela severely injured. She was rushed to the hospital, where she bravely fought for her life. Sadly, she succumbed to her wounds on December 2, 2013.
Unraveling the Mystery of Williams’ Murder
In the aftermath of Pamela’s murder, the search for her killers began in earnest. A critical lead came from Jerry Link, a security guard in the area. Link reported seeing four men fleeing the scene near Pamela’s home, identifying three of them – Jonathan Banks, James Sims, and James Calhoun. As the investigation progressed, authorities learned that Sims and Calhoun were residents of the Amhurst Subdivision, while Banks had lived there previously.
The Burglary Ring Connection
In November 2012, a 9mm gun was stolen from a residence in Fulton County. This incident became relevant to the investigation when a Twitter account, believed to belong to Calhoun, referenced possession of a firearm after the burglary. A few months before Pamela’s murder, a woman named Melissa Burke was shot during a burglary while hiding in her closet. She survived and identified Calhoun as the shooter. The authorities also recovered Calhoun’s cell phone from the crime scene. Connecting these dots, the police linked the three men, Banks, Sims, and Calhoun, to a burglary ring responsible for over 100 thefts in south Fulton County, Georgia, culminating in Pamela Williams’ murder.
Justice Served
After a lengthy trial, the jury delivered its verdict in October 2016. Jonathan Banks was convicted for possessing a firearm as a prior felon and received a life sentence without the possibility of parole. James Sims and James Calhoun were both sentenced to life in prison, with the possibility of parole.
Where are the Perpetrators Now?
As of the present, Jonathan Banks, James Calhoun, and James Sims are serving their respective sentences. Sims is incarcerated at the Coffee Correctional Facility in Nicholls, Georgia, while Calhoun is serving his term at Ware State Prison in Waycross, Georgia. Banks, who received a life sentence without parole, is held at Hancock State Prison in Sparta, Georgia.
The tragic story of Pamela Williams is a solemn reminder of the atrocities that can be committed even within seemingly peaceful communities. As justice was served for Pamela, the community found solace, knowing the culprits would spend their lives behind bars. This tale also underlines the importance of vigilance and community cooperation in ensuring the safety and security of our neighborhoods.
