On April 30, 2024, at approximately 5:30 p.m., Fresno Police officers responded to a ShotSpotter activation near Fairmont and Holt Avenues in northwest Fresno. Upon arrival, they discovered 37-year-old Xavier Gladney suffering from a gunshot wound. He was transported to Community Regional Medical Center, where he was pronounced deceased. Additionally, a 13-year-old juvenile, present at the scene, was later dropped off at the hospital with a non-life-threatening gunshot wound.
Homicide detectives identified 33-year-old Darren Williams as the suspect in Gladney's murder. Williams, who shares an extensive criminal history with Gladney, is believed to have been involved in a gang-related interpersonal dispute leading to the shooting. Notably, in 2013, Williams was arrested for a murder in the area of Sierra Madre and Cedar but served only three years in prison before his release. A warrant has been issued for his arrest on charges of murder and assault with a deadly weapon. As of the latest reports, Williams remains at large, and authorities are seeking public assistance to locate him.
The incident has raised concerns among residents of northwest Fresno, an area typically considered one of the city's safest. Despite the presence of video policing and other security measures, the neighborhood around Fairmont and Holt has experienced a surge in violent activities. Less than two weeks prior to Gladney's death, 44-year-old David Holliman was fatally shot nearby. Law enforcement officials have emphasized that both Gladney and Holliman were specifically targeted due to their gang affiliations, suggesting that these incidents, while alarming, do not pose a general threat to public safety.
In the aftermath of Gladney's death, there was international speculation linking the incident to the reputed gangster Goldy Brar, a suspect in the killing of Punjabi singer Sidhu Moosewala. Fresno Police have categorically denied any such connection, clarifying that the victim was not Brar and that the shooting stemmed solely from local gang-related disputes. They have urged the public and media outlets to verify information before drawing such conclusions.
As the investigation continues, Fresno Police are appealing to the community for any information that could lead to Darren Williams' apprehension. They have provided contact details for homicide detectives and Crime Stoppers, assuring that informants can remain anonymous. The department remains committed to addressing gang-related violence and ensuring the safety of all Fresno residents.
