TAVARES, FL – In a painful chapter for the community of Tavares, the tragic death of 10-year-old Xavier Williams has left residents in shock and mourning. The young boy, who suffered grievous injuries, was taken to the hospital in cardiac arrest a month ago. After fighting for his life in critical condition, Xavier succumbed to his injuries, leaving behind a community struggling to comprehend the horror of his ordeal.
Xavier’s home, now a growing memorial site, sees a steady stream of visitors leaving stuffed animals, candles, and balloons to honor his memory. According to authorities, Xavier was subjected to severe abuse allegedly at the hands of his mother, Kimberly Mills, and her boyfriend, Andre Walker. Charges against the pair are expected to be elevated to murder following Xavier’s death.
The community is grappling with the shocking details of the case. “It’s unfathomable,” said Heather Stark, a nearby resident who laid flowers at the site. “No child should endure such suffering. As a mother, my heart breaks for him.”
Among those grieving is 11-year-old Bailey Smith, a classmate and friend of Xavier’s. She fondly remembers him as a jokester who enjoyed playing Fortnite and was well-liked among peers. “He seemed like any other kid, happy and normal,” Bailey said, reflecting on the facade that masked the troubling reality inside Xavier’s home.
The investigation has revealed chilling accounts from Xavier’s younger brother, who described the abuse that took place the night Xavier was hospitalized. Allegedly, Xavier was duct-taped to a ladder and had weights dropped on his stomach. The revelation has left neighbors appalled and questioning how such brutality could go unnoticed.
In response to the tragedy, Tavares police have organized a candlelight vigil to be held next Saturday at Wooton Park. Attendees are encouraged to wear blue in Xavier’s honor. Additionally, the police have shared links for donations, including one to a GoFundMe campaign benefiting Xavier’s father, who has traveled from Connecticut to care for Xavier’s younger brother.
As the community gathers to mourn and remember Xavier, the call for justice and healing continues. The story has prompted a broader reflection on the hidden dangers some children face and the need for vigilance to protect the most vulnerable.