Bank's Wrongful Accusation of Fraud Shuts Down Black Woman's Car Dealership
In a shocking tale of financial ruin, Tianna Williams, a successful African American car dealership owner in Pennsylvania, has filed a lawsuit against M&T Bank for wrongfully accusing her of fraud. The bank's actions allegedly derailed her business, causing it to shut down despite reaching a major milestone just months prior.A Rags-to-Riches Story
Tianna Williams built Automo-Deals Inc. from scratch, flipping cars as a teenager and later focusing on helping buyers with limited or damaged credit. By early 2023, her Easton-based business had reached a major milestone, posting over $1 million in sales after securing a finance license that expanded her lending options.
A Bank's Promise Turns Sour
Williams' success caught the attention of a local M&T Bank branch manager, who visited her dealership and pitched a business account and lower-interest credit line. Williams accepted the offer, depositing roughly $35,000 and applying for a $100,000 line of credit to support continued growth.
A Fraud Investigation Gone Wrong
Just days later, Williams discovered her new account had been frozen without explanation. According to the lawsuit, a bank investigator flagged her deposits as suspicious and opened a fraud investigation, even though the funds included a customer payment and money from a well-known auto finance company.
The Damage Was Done
More than a month later, the bank determined no fraud had occurred and restored access to the account. However, by that point, Williams claims the damage was irreversible. Lenders had pulled out, revenue collapsed, and Automo-Deals soon had to close its doors.
A Lawsuit Filed in March 2025
The lawsuit, filed in March 2025, accuses the bank and its employee of interfering with her business and failing to properly supervise the investigation. The case is currently on hold as both sides pursue mediation.
Tianna Williams' story serves as a cautionary tale about the devastating consequences of wrongful accusations in the financial industry. As she fights for justice, it remains to be seen whether her business will rise from the ashes or if the bank's actions will have long-lasting repercussions for her and other small business owners.
