DORAL, Fla. — Investigators are asking for the public’s help in identifying the person responsible for killing Terrance Willis in 2021.
The case has gone cold, but authorities hope newly released video could generate leads.
“Look at me. It’s killing me, it’s draining every ounce left in me. It’s tearing me up people,” Willis’ mother, Deborah Willis, said during an emotional plea.
With courage and unwavering strength, she spoke about her son, Terrance, who was gunned down near the busway and Southwest 184th Street in Miami in May 2021.
“He was a giver, he was giving anything, he had love and loved God,” she said.
According to the Miami-Dade Sheriff’s Office, Willis was riding a Miami-Dade Transit bus and was seated in the rear when he became involved in a small verbal altercation with someone else on board.
“Terrance was riding a MD Transits bus and seated in the rear of the bus and was involved in a small verbal altercation with someone in the back of the bus,” Sgt. Pedro Camacho said.
Investigators said Willis got off the bus and was then shot multiple times.
Five years later, detectives hope newly released surveillance video will help move the investigation forward. Authorities have identified a person of interest described as a Black male who was between 18 and 25 years old at the time and about 6 feet tall.
“It is possible that someone who was reluctant, scared or didn’t feel their input could be useful,” lead investigator Detective Oscar Andino said. “Any piece of information could be relevant to this investigation.”
Willis was a father of three and grandfather of one. His family said he was simply on his way home when his life was cut short.
His mother said she is still searching for answers.
“I don’t even want you to go to prison. I just want you to talk to me, talk to me. Prison is not gonna help you. I know this,” she said.
Investigators are urging anyone with information to come forward. A Miami-Dade Crime Stoppers reward is available for information that leads to an arrest. Anyone with information is asked to call Miami-Dade Crime Stoppers at 305-471-TIPS.
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