San Diego police confirmed Tuesday that U.S. Marshals arrested a 50‑year‑old man at Miss B’s Coconut Club in Mission Beach, ending a nearly 14‑year manhunt for a suspect in a violent crime in Iowa.
Identity and arrest
The man, identified as Brian Anthony Williams, had been living in San Diego under the assumed name “Troy Williams” and working as a chef at the popular beachfront restaurant. Marshals said a tip from a viewer who recognized Williams from a February profile in the Times of San Diego led investigators to the 3700 block of Mission Boulevard, where he was taken into custody without incident.
Background of the alleged crime
Williams has been wanted by federal authorities since 2012, when he and several accomplices allegedly kidnapped, assaulted and shot a woman in a field near Davenport, Iowa, before abandoning her. He was charged with first‑degree kidnapping, assault causing serious injury, conspiracy to commit a felony and first‑degree arson, and later faced an additional charge of unlawful flight to avoid prosecution.
Reaction from the restaurant
Employees at Miss B’s Coconut Club described Williams as a valued member of the team. General manager Eddie Jurado, who also lived with Williams, said staff were shocked to learn of the distant allegations. “He was a good guy here, loved by everybody,” Jurado told FOX 5, adding that the revelation left employees grappling with mixed emotions.
Despite the serious nature of the federal charges, coworkers recalled Williams as kind‑hearted and dedicated, noting his emphasis on “togetherness” and “kindness” in a recent interview. Those remarks, while highlighting his public persona, ultimately helped law enforcement locate him.
Law‑enforcement perspective
U.S. Marshal Ted Kamatchus praised the successful operation, calling it “a perfect example of those who think they have bested law enforcement and evaded arrest.” The Marshal’s office emphasized that the collaborative effort between federal agents and vigilant community members demonstrates the effectiveness of our justice system.
Next steps
Williams remains in federal custody pending extradition to Iowa, where he will face prosecution for the 2012 kidnapping and related offenses. The U.S. Marshals Service has not released a timeline for the extradition process.
Community impact
The case underscores the importance of community vigilance and the role local media can play in assisting federal investigations. Residents of Mission Beach and the broader San Diego area are reminded that even seemingly ordinary individuals may have hidden pasts, and that cooperation with law‑enforcement agencies is essential for public safety.
Original reporting: Fox News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
