Ramada Hotel Shooting Suspect Arrested In Georgia: Sheriff

SARASOTA, FL — The suspect in a May 24 shooting in the parking lot of the Ramada by Wyndham Sarasota Waterfront hotel was arrested in Georgia, the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office said in a news release.

Robert Lee Williams, Jr., 43, is accused of shooting and injuring a 34-year-old man around 2:40 p.m. May 24, MCSO said.

The victim and two friends went to the hotel, which is located at 7150 N. Tamiami Trail, to visit another friend. Minutes after he pulled into the parking lot, the shooter, identified at the time as a heavyset man in his late 30s, exited his vehicle and approached the victim, asking him to roll down his window. When the victim complied, the suspect revealed a firearm, shooting him once, MCSO said.

The victim was brought to a local hospital for treatment. He was later released and is recovering from his injury.

Throughout the investigation, the sheriff’s office identified Williams as a suspect and learned that he was staying in the Valdosta, Georgia area. Valdosta police located Williams and took him into custody Thursday afternoon, MCSO said.

Like what you're reading? Invite a friend to subscribe to free Bradenton newsletters and real-time email alerts.

Williams has been charged with aggravated battery with a deadly weapon, the sheriff’s office said. He also faces charges in Georgia and will be extradited to Manatee County at a later date.

Detectives are still investigating the motive behind the shooting, MCSO said.