Motel beating victim dies

By Leslie Wood
Staff Writer

GALLUP — The 55-year-old Fort Defiance man who was found nearly lifeless inside a local motel room on March 7, died on Monday.

Erin Toadlena-Pablo, a spokeswoman for the Gallup Police Department, confirmed Douglas Williams Jr. died at an Albuquerque hospital from injuries he sustained during a beating at the Lariat Lodge, 1105 E. Hwy. 66, on or about March 7.

Williams was diagnosed with a depressed skull fracture and required life support to stay alive, according to authorities.

A member of the Lariat Lodge custodial staff found Williams severely injured inside one the motel's rooms at about 10 a.m. on March 7. He was taken to Gallup Indian Medical Center for treatment, but was later transferred to an Albuquerque hospital due to the severity of his injuries.

Detectives suspect Williams was robbed by his attackers because family members confirmed he had a large sum of money in his possession prior to the altercation. Authorities found Williams' wallet in the motel room's trash with nothing inside. The room was also allegedly in disarray.

Toadlena-Pablo said Williams was last seen with three people at a Mustang Central gas station.

She said detectives have classified the case as a homicide investigation due to Williams' death. Meanwhile, detectives are following up on tips from the public, but have no substantial leads.

Anyone with information about the case, is asked to call CrimeStoppers at (505) 722-6161. The organization is offering a reward of up to $1,000 to anyone who provides information that leads to the arrest and conviction of a suspect.