Devaughan Williams is accused of killing Kiara Alani Smith, the mother of his child, as his case moves closer to trial.

CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas — Devaughan Williams returned to court this week as his case moves closer to trial in the death of Kiara Alani Smith.

One week after Williams’ defense team filed a motion asking the court to quash his most recent indictment for capital murder, Susan Barclay denied that request.

Following the ruling, Barclay directed both the prosecution and defense to begin preparing their arguments as the case moves forward toward trial.

Williams is accused of shooting and killing Smith — the mother of his child.

 Kiara Alani Smith was 25 years old at the time of her death and would have turned 27 on Monday, March 2nd.

Investigators say she was fatally shot the morning of Sept. 6, 2024. 

Officers with the Corpus Christi Police Department responded to the 1100 block of Green Earth Drive after people inside the home reported hearing gunshots and discovering Smith’s body.

Family members said Smith and Williams had been staying at the home of Smith’s aunt, who allowed the pair to live there temporarily.

According to court records, Williams was already out on bail at the time of Smith’s death for a December 2023 charge of deadly conduct involving the discharge of a firearm.

He also faces additional charges tied to earlier alleged incidents involving Smith, including:

Assault of a pregnant person in June 2023

Aggravated assault with a deadly weapon in November 2023

Since Kiara’s death, her family has been active in raising awareness about domestic violence.

A trial date has not yet been set.