PHILADELPHIA, Pa. — A Philadelphia jury has convicted Rodrick Williams, 25, of first-degree murder and related firearm charges for the fatal shooting of 21-year-old Michael Mines in April 2021 near the Cobbs Creek section of the city.
On April 6, 2021, Williams shot Mines multiple times in the head while the victim sat in a vehicle on the 600 block of South 55th Street. Mines was pronounced dead at the scene by first responders. Prosecutors linked Williams, who investigators say is associated with a violent street group, to the crime through evidence recovered from his Instagram account, cell phone, and ballistic analysis of the .22 caliber weapon used in the shooting.
Authorities believe Williams’ motive for the killing was retaliation for the shooting death of his brother, though investigators found no evidence that Mines, who had no known connections to street groups, was involved in the brother’s murder.
On December 5, 2024, the Honorable Glenn Bronson sentenced Williams to life in prison without the possibility of parole. Williams is also awaiting trial for another homicide and three non-fatal shootings.
“This conviction is a testament to the hard work and collaboration of the Philadelphia Police Department and our Gun Violence Task Force,” said District Attorney Larry Krasner in a statement. “Williams poses a clear danger to public safety, and this verdict ensures accountability for cutting short the life of a young man.”
