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Teens Charged in Deadly Robbery Plot Over Designer Gun
Six suspects, including minors, accused of luring 18-year-old Karim Williams to his death for his 'Louis Vuitton' pistol
Mar. 22, 2026 at 6:51am
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In a shocking crime that has shaken the Fresno community, a group of teenagers allegedly lured 18-year-old Karim Williams to a location under the guise of a party, only to fatally shoot him in order to steal his designer-branded firearm. Six suspects, including a 13-year-old and a 17-year-old, have been charged in the murder and robbery.
Why it matters
This tragic case highlights the growing problem of youth violence and the dangerous allure of designer firearms, which have become prized possessions among some young people. It also raises concerns about the challenges of prosecuting juvenile offenders involved in serious crimes.
The details
According to authorities, the suspects - Jaylon Black, 21, Kwame Pree, 20, Jaymari Sconiers, 20, and Josiah Rogers, 19 - were known to the victim and had orchestrated the ruse to lure him to the Park View Apartments in northwest Fresno. There, they allegedly shot and killed Williams, then searched his pockets before fleeing the scene. Police say the weapon, a Sig Sauer pistol wrapped in Louis Vuitton branding, was the motive for the crime.
- On March 22, 2026, Karim Williams was fatally shot at the Park View Apartments in Fresno.
- The suspects were arrested last week after an extensive investigation by Fresno police.
The players
Karim Williams
The 18-year-old victim who was lured to his death over his designer-branded firearm.
Jaylon Black
One of the 21-year-old suspects charged with murder and robbery, facing up to 25 years to life in prison.
Kwame Pree
One of the 20-year-old suspects charged with murder, robbery and firearm enhancements, facing up to 100 years to life in prison.
Jaymari Sconiers
One of the 20-year-old suspects charged with murder and robbery, facing up to 50 years to life in prison.
Josiah Rogers
One of the 19-year-old suspects charged with murder and robbery, facing up to 50 years to life in prison.
What they’re saying
“These perpetrators are young, just children and teenagers. Yet they have committed this senseless act of violence that has devastated a family and a community.”
— Lisa Smittcamp, Fresno County District Attorney
“They're being charged with robbery and murder, and facing possible gang enhancement charges as well. Although this was not a crime amongst rival gang members, it was an internal issue that resulted in Kari's robbery and murder.”
— Mindy Casto, Fresno Police Chief
“Justice in this case is now going to move forward in both the juvenile and adult courts where we will present the evidence and try to pursue accountability for Kari and his family, and continue to work to protect the community.”
— Lisa Smittcamp, Fresno County District Attorney
What’s next
The 17-year-old suspect is expected to be transferred to adult court, where he could face 25 years to life in prison if convicted. The 13-year-old will remain in juvenile court.
The takeaway
This tragic case underscores the need for greater efforts to address youth violence and the dangerous allure of designer firearms in some communities. It also highlights the complexities of prosecuting juvenile offenders involved in serious crimes.
