WBGZ Radio 3/17/2021 |
By Doug Jenkins - WBGZ Radio
The Alton man found guilty of First-Degree Murder in the killing of 87-year-old Eldon “Twirp” Williams in October 2018 will spend the rest of his life in prison. 36-year-old Donald M. Nelson was sentenced this (Wednesday) afternoon 40 years on the count of First-Degree Murder with an additional 25 years to be served consecutively for an enhanced gun charge.
Mandatory truth in sentencing applies and Nelson will be required to serve 100% of this consecutive sentence of 65 years in prison. Sentencing on additional charges of Armed Violence, Criminal Trespass, Unlawful Possession of a Firearm by a Felon and Possession of a Stolen Firearm resulted in an additional 15-year sentence of which 50% must be served. Williams was shot and killed outside a home in the 200 block of West Delmar Avenue in Godfrey on October 16, 2018. Nelson was arrested a few blocks away on an unrelated call, but investigators quickly connected him to the alleged murder. Williams had been a longtime real estate agent in Godfrey, served on the Godfrey Village Board and was Township Assessor for many years prior to Godfrey incorporation.