Tricia Todd’s family knew they something was wrong when she didn’t pick up her 2-year-old daughter, from her daycare on April 27, 2016.
The disappearance of Tricia Todd, a 30-year-old mother, Air Force veteran, and nurse, sent shockwaves through the quiet town of Hobe Sound, Florida. But what ensues is a sinister investigation that delves into the lives of those close to her, uncovering unexpected suspects and uncovering a web of deceit and tragedy.
Marginalized communities
In the Hobe Sound area, where violence is rare, the disappearance of Tricia Todd has raised alarm bells. Todd grew up in Hob Sound and was known for her energetic spirit and passion for family and work. Her sudden disappearance has shocked the community and is desperate for answers.
Investigators pinpointed a suspect captured on camera walking early in the morning near where Tricia Todd disappeared. Detectives are pretty sure they know who that man is, but is there enough evidence to link him to a crime?@DebRobertsABC reports for tonight’s new #ABC2020. pic.twitter.com/pWhu0HBIIf
— 20/20 (@ABC2020) May 3, 2024
Life was cut short
Tricia Todd lived a life full of faith and love. From her days in the Air Force to her work as a hospital nurse to her dedication to humanitarian work in Haiti, Todd’s strength is visible to others. But in her love, there is a struggle for herself—a marriage that failed through cheating.
After a decade together, Todd and her husband Steven Williams parted ways, and Todd returned to Hobe Sound with her daughter Faith in tow.
Tricia Todd’s mom recalls learning police found her missing daughter’s body: “I can remember I kind of froze.”
Watch the interview during @DebRobertsABC‘s full 20/20 report ‘The Hungryland Homicide’ – tonight at 9/8c on @ABC. pic.twitter.com/iYbLxwKgQT
— 20/20 (@ABC2020) May 3, 2024
The Search for Answers
As investigators combed through leads and interviewed acquaintances, suspicions fell on various individuals in Todd’s life. From a local pastor whom Todd had encountered during her beach walks to a ventriloquist whom she admired, the investigation took unexpected turns. Even Todd’s ex-husband, Steven Williams, came under scrutiny, especially after revealing details about Todd’s late-night walks on the beach.
The Heart of the Matter
After weeks of relentless investigation, Steven Williams confessed to a chilling truth – he had killed Tricia Todd. Williams claimed it was an accident, but his actions following Todd’s death spoke of a calculated cover-up. Despite his admission, the location of Todd’s body remained a mystery, prompting authorities to strike a plea deal with Williams in exchange for information about her remains.
After his ex-wife disappears, initial interviews with Steven Williams showed he seemed genuinely concerned about Tricia Todd, saying he last saw her around 2:00am after helping their child back to bed. What happened to Tricia?
The new #ABC2020 full episode airs Friday on @ABC. pic.twitter.com/YliRKOfKN5
— 20/20 (@ABC2020) May 2, 2024
Justice and Remorse
The revelation of Todd’s fate brought both closure and anguish to her loved ones. With Faith now in the care of Todd’s brother Jonathan and his family, the legacy of Tricia Todd lives on through the memories shared with her daughter. But for the community of Hobe Sound and those involved in the investigation, the scars left by the ‘Hungryland Homicide’ serve as a reminder of the fragility of life and the depths of corruption.
In the aftermath of tragedy, questions linger about whether justice was truly served and if the price paid for the truth was too high. As the sun sets on this dark chapter in Hobe Sound’s history, the memory of Tricia Todd remains a beacon of hope amidst the shadows of loss and regret.