Man who sold gun to Texas hostage-taker arrested, charged

The source of the gun used by Malik Faisal Akram to take four hostages at a Texas synagogue was charged with a federal firearm crime on Wednesday.

Henry “Michael” Dwight Williams, a 32-year-old convicted felon, was charged with illegally possessing the Taurus G2C pistol he allegedly sold to Akram on Jan. 13. His criminal record includes aggravated assault with a deadly weapon and attempted possession of a controlled substance, according to a statement by the U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Texas. 

“Federal firearm laws are designed to keep guns from falling into dangerous hands. As a convicted felon, Mr. Williams was prohibited from carrying, acquiring, or selling firearms. Whether or not he knew of his buyer’s nefarious intent is largely irrelevant — felons cannot have guns, period, and the Justice Department is committed to prosecuting those who do,” said U.S. Attorney Chad E. Meacham in a statement.

“The Dallas FBI Field Office and our partners have worked around the clock since January 15, 2022 to determine how Malik Faisal Akram acquired the weapon he used to terrorize worshipers at Colleyville’s Congregation Beth Israel synagogue," said Dallas FBI Special Agent in Charge Matthew DeSarno. "Along with our federal, state and local law enforcement partners we pledge to continue our efforts to protect our communities from violence."

Williams allegedly admitted to officers Akram told him the handgun was to be used for “intimidation” to recoup an unpaid debt. The gun was found at the Beth Israel Synagogue after federal authorities killed Akram to end the 11-hour standoff.

Williams was first interviewed by police on Jan. 16, one day after the hostage crisis. An analysis of Akram’s cell phone showed he had exchanged a series of calls with Williams from Jan. 11 through Jan. 13.

At the time, Williams reportedly stated remembered meeting a man with a British accent but could not recall his name at the time. Akram was a British citizen.

Prosecutors allege that after Williams was arrested on Jan. 24 and shown a photo of Akram, he confirmed the man he met and sold the pistol to on Jan. 13 was indeed the Texas synagogue hostage taker. Location data from the two men’s cell phones showed they were in close proximity that day. 

A detention hearing for Williams has been set for Jan. 31.