Pittsburgh Homicide Trial Continues for 2025 Shooting
Jurors are hearing testimony regarding the 2025 shooting death of 26-year-old Rayon Williams at a local barbershop.
Updated on Oct. 19, 2026 in Violence
The homicide trial for 26-year-old Myairah Carter is underway in Pittsburgh following the October 4, 2025, shooting death of Rayon Williams. Carter stands accused of fatally shooting the unarmed 26-year-old at Bonez Barbershop on East Carson Street.
Why it matters
The case centers on a two-year feud between the two women, with the defense arguing that Carter feared for her life during the altercation. Prosecutors are presenting evidence that Carter fired three shots from beneath a cape before turning herself in to police.
Seven witnesses testified in court on Monday regarding the fatal shooting that occurred during a two-year feud. Police recovered a 9mm pistol from the defendant's vehicle shortly after the incident at Bonez Barbershop.
The players
Myairah Carter
She is the 26-year-old defendant currently standing trial for homicide in the shooting death of Rayon Williams.
Rayon Williams
The 26-year-old victim died at UPMC Mercy hospital after being shot at a barbershop on East Carson Street.
The details
Surveillance footage displayed in court showed Carter firing three gunshots from beneath a cape draped over her shoulders. Police utilized Shot Spotter technology and traffic cameras to track the vehicle Carter drove away from the scene on East Carson Street before she surrendered to authorities.
Timeline
The feud between Myairah Carter and Rayon Williams began in 2023.
The shooting occurred on October 4, 2025.
Trial proceedings are scheduled to resume on Tuesday, October 20, 2026.
Legal Context
This case highlights the complexities of Pennsylvania's stand-your-ground law as jurors evaluate a claim of self-defense. The trial tests the legal application of this statute in instances where a multi-year history of personal conflict exists between the involved parties.
The high-profile nature of the crime on East Carson Street has kept the local community focused on the trial's legal outcomes. Residents are monitoring the proceedings as they reflect ongoing concerns regarding gun violence in city neighborhoods.
The takeaway
This case serves as a reminder of how long-standing personal disputes can escalate into violent criminal encounters. Legal experts often emphasize the importance of documented history in resolving claims of immediate self-defense.
What happens next
The trial proceedings are scheduled to resume on Tuesday, October 20, 2026.
Further reading
For more information on public safety and related cases, visit the Pittsburgh Violence section.
