Edward Kimani Charged with First-Degree Murder in Transit Center Execution of Classmate Juwan Williams

SEATTLE, WA (August 5, 2025) – In a deeply disturbing act of violence, Edward Kimani, 26, of Seattle, has been formally charged with first-degree murder with a firearm enhancement in connection with the execution-style shooting of 48-year-old Juwan Williams, a former classmate, at the Northgate Transit Center on July 28.

The King County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office announced the charge on August 4, and bail has been set at $5 million. Kimani remains in custody at the King County Jail.

Deadly Encounter at Northgate

According to court documents, Edward Kimani and Juwan Williams were both students at Pima Medical Institute, though authorities say the motive behind the killing remains unknown. Surveillance video captured Kimani waiting at the Northgate Transit Center just before Williams arrived around 8 a.m. on the morning of the shooting.

As Juwan Williams stepped off the escalator, Kimani, wearing gloves and a face mask, approached from behind and shot him in the back of the head. After the initial shot, Kimani reportedly attempted to shoot Williams again in the chest, but his firearm malfunctioned. He then fled the scene, according to police.

Paramedics rushed Williams to the hospital, but he died the following day from his injuries.

Investigation Unfolds

A suspect vehicle—a gold Chevrolet Malibu—was seen leaving the scene and was later captured on surveillance cameras at a nearby gas station. The day after the murder, a Seattle police officer stopped Kimani for driving without headlights and a license plate. At the time, Kimani claimed he had just purchased the vehicle, and the officer released him with a warning.

Further investigation linked the gold Malibu to Kimani’s West Seattle home. Traffic camera footage showed the car leaving Kimani’s residence early on the morning of the murder and heading toward the transit center.

A search warrant executed at Edward Kimani’s home revealed critical evidence: a Glock handgun matching the casings recovered from the scene, along with clothing identical to what the shooter wore in surveillance footage.

Justice in Progress

Edward Kimani was arrested and booked into jail shortly after police pieced together the forensic and video evidence. His arraignment is scheduled for August 18, at which time he will formally respond to the charge.

Authorities continue to investigate the motive behind the killing of Juwan Williams, described by former classmates as quiet and committed to his studies.

The shocking murder at a public transportation hub has reignited concerns over safety in Seattle and raised questions about the unchecked presence of firearms in public spaces.

Anyone with additional information related to the case involving Edward Kimani and Juwan Williams is encouraged to contact the Seattle Police Department’s Homicide Unit.

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