Courtesy Photo-Matthew Ethington II embraces his son Mathew Ethington III
On Sunday, February 19, 2023, a tragic incident was uncovered by the Livonia Police Department at the residence of Matthew Charles Ethington II and his girlfriend, Maria Martin, resulting in the loss of their lives. Fortunately, their one-year-old son, Matthew Charles Ethington III, was found unharmed.
This tragedy has left many questions unanswered since the case was closed by Livonia Police Department. Ms Donnielle Williams mother of Matthew Ethington II continues to search for answers. Concerns have emerged regarding the events leading up to their deaths, the actions of local law enforcement, and the handling of evidence.
The Discovery of the Scene
According to police reports and the family of the deceased, Matthew and Maria were found by Livonia Police after Maria’s mother, Tracy Wilkins, flagged them down. Tracy had reportedly been in contact with Maria earlier that morning and arrived at the residence when Maria failed to pick up her child. Upon arrival, Tracy informed officers that she could not access the home. She retrieved a garage door opener from one of the vehicles parked at the residence, which allowed police to enter the house.
The bodycam recording by Livonia police commences after Tracy Wilkins (Maria Martin's Mother) approached them for assistance. The audio becomes audible approximately 30 seconds into the video.
Inside, the police discovered the bodies of Matthew and Maria. The Case is closed, however, some family members and private investigators have questioned the thoroughness of the investigation.
Discrepancies in the Investigation
In an interview, Matthew's mother, Donnielle Williams, shared concerns about inconsistencies in the police reports. The autopsy revealed multiple gunshot wounds to Maria’s body, some of which were deemed non-fatal, raising questions about the nature of the shooting and the possibility that she had been moved. Additionally, there was no ballistics analysis, limited audio from the body cam footage, and no 3D scan of the crime scene.
These omissions led Ms. Williams to commission an independent autopsy, which highlighted contradictions with the initial police findings. According to this report, Matthew's death was due to a contact gunshot wound, but the manner of death could not be definitively determined. The absence of certain investigative procedures has left the family with lingering doubts.
Community Concerns and the Family’s Pursuit of Justice
The family has expressed concern over the narrative suggesting domestic violence, which they feel was prematurely accepted by Maria’s family and others without sufficient evidence. Tracy Wilkins publicly claimed that Matthew had been abusive, and Maria’s sister, Aujanea, echoed this sentiment when she launched a GoFundMe campaign shortly after the tragedy, labeling Matthew a domestic abuser.
Courtesy Photo-Ms Donnielle Williams and her son Matthew
Following the closure of the case by Livonia Police Department, Ms. Williams persists in her quest for answers. She contends that the incomplete release of evidence by Livonia PD and unaddressed inquiries for additional information have hindered the pursuit of justice.
What Comes Next?
As of May 2023, the Livonia Police Department officially closed the investigation into the deaths of Matthew and Maria, but many questions remain. Ms. Williams continues to pursue legal options and independent investigations to better understand the circumstances surrounding the deaths.
While the official narrative points to a tragic domestic incident, the family disputes this, maintaining that crucial evidence may have been overlooked or mishandled.
This case underscores the complexities and emotional toll of investigations involving family members and domestic disputes. It highlights the importance of transparency and thoroughness in law enforcement practices to provide closure to grieving families. As new developments arise, The Chronicle News will continue to follow this story closely.
In the first of three episodes, Host Yanice Jackson and Co-Host Span discuss the death of Donnielle Williams' son, Matthew Effington II, and his girlfriend. The conversation delves into the suspicious circumstances surrounding the case, which involves three different police agencies, numerous private investigators, and suspicious family members.
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