On April 9, 2025, Washoe County Sheriff’s Office (WCSO) deputies responded to the 300 block of Short Avenue in Sun Valley for a reported medical emergency. The victim, identified as 53-year-old Thomas Donoho, was transported to a local hospital where he later passed away.
During the initial investigation, it was discovered that Donoho had injuries consistent with a physical altercation.
WCSO Detectives responded to the scene and determined that 44-year-old Curtis Lee Williams had battered Mr. Donoho prior to his death. A subsequent autopsy conducted by the Washoe County Regional Medical Examiner’s Office ruled Mr. Donoho’s death a homicide.
Working in coordination with the Washoe County Sheriff’s Office Human Exploitation and Recovery Operations (HERO) Team and the Northern Nevada Drug Task Force (NNDTF), detectives obtained an arrest warrant for Mr. Williams.
Today, October 9, 2025, Curtis Lee Williams was taken into custody by detectives with the Sacramento County Sheriff’s Office Major Crimes Bureau on the outstanding arrest warrant for the murder of Thomas Donoho. Williams is currently awaiting extradition to Nevada, where he will be charged with Murder, Second Degree with the Use of a Deadly Weapon, a violation of NRS 200.030(2).
The Washoe County Sheriff’s Office extends its appreciation to the Sacramento County Sheriff’s Office for their assistance in this investigation.
This remains an ongoing investigation. Anyone with additional information is encouraged to contact the Washoe County Sheriff’s Office Detective Division at (775) 328-3320 or remain anonymous by contacting Secret Witness at (775) 322-4900 / www.secretwitness.com, reference case # WC25-1730.
