A man in Venice, Florida has been found guilty of first-degree murder for shooting his ex-girlfriend while she sat in the drive-thru bank teller line. The defendant, 50-year-old William Tollard, was convicted on Thursday for the October 2020 slaying of Angela Ziegler, according to State Attorney’s Office.
The chilling incident unfolded when Tollard pulled up behind Ziegler’s Jeep at the BB & bank, blocking her between his truck and a work van at the teller window. He then stepped out of his vehicle and approached Ziegler’s driver’s side window. Surveillance video captured the shocking sequence of events, showing Tollard firing three shots at Ziegler after a brief conversation. He proceeded to walk around to the passenger side and fired two more shots.
Ziegler’s Jeep continued to drift forward for about 100 yards before crashing into a light pole, while Tollard approached her vehicle and fired several more rounds into her front windshield. Throughout the shooting, Tollard allegedly uttered expletives, expressing his anger towards Ziegler for ending their relationship just five days prior. Ziegler died at the scene, sustaining multiple gunshot wounds to her chest, arms, and neck.
Following the shooting, Tollard calmly walked back to his truck and drove away, only to call 911 later to report that he had shot someone. Sarasota County Sheriff’s deputies quickly located Tollard and apprehended him. A search of his truck led to the discovery of a semi-automatic firearm, a magazine containing eight rounds, and a pair of binoculars.
Detectives investigating the case revealed that Tollard and Ziegler had a tumultuous on-again, off-again relationship for over a year and a half.
Tollard now faces a mandatory sentence of life in prison without the possibility of parole. The case serves as a harrowing reminder of the dangers of unhealthy relationships and the need for intervention and support in such situations.
To combat domestic violence, it is crucial for individuals to recognize the signs of an abusive relationship and seek help through local advocacy groups and resources.