42-year-old cold case solved in Ann Arbor

LANSING, Mich. (WLNS)– Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel announced the end to a case that went cold more than 40 years ago.

Friday, Isiah Williams, 78, from Chicago, was found guilty on one count each of felony murder and first-degree premeditated murder by a Washtenaw Circut Court jury, connected to the disappearance and presumed death of his then 8-month-old daughter Olisa Williams.

Williams took his daughter Olisa from her mother’s arms during a physical altercation on April 29, 1982, in Ohio and took her to Michigan, where she was last seen alive in Williams’ custody that summer.

Olisa was never found and presumed dead. The Ann Arbor Police requested that Attorney General Nessel review the case in 2021.

“Thanks to the unwavering commitment of our law enforcement partners, who spent years following every lead in this tragic disappearance, and the dedicated efforts of prosecutors in my office, Olisa’s family can finally see a measure of justice served,” Nessel said. “I hope this conviction may bring some peace and healing to Olisa’s loved ones.”

Williams will be sentenced on July 10, 2024, in front of the Hon. Patrick Conlin of the 22nd Circuit Court in Washtenaw County.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WLNS 6 News.