Intoxication defense planned for Coralville woman accused of starting fatal fire

Attorneys for a Coralville grandmother accused of intentionally setting a fire that killed 14-year-old Raymone Bryant have filed documents indicating they plan to use her intoxication and diminished responsibility as a defense during her trial, according to online court records.

Lillie W. Williams, 50, is charged with first-degree murder in connection with the fire at 720 11th Ave. in Coralville on Sept. 4, 2011 that killed Bryant. Williams' 6-year-old grandson told authorities his grandmother poured gasoline on a pillow and threw it into the garage to start the fire. After several hearings, Sixth District Judge Paul Miller ruled earlier this week the boy is competent to testify in her murder trial.

Williams' attorney, Sarah Hradek, filed the notices relating to Williams' defense strategy on Friday. The defense has also filed a motion for a change of venue, which has not yet been ruled on, court documents show.