Man charged with murder after 7-year-old opens door to find mother dead in Washington Heights

Key points

• Tiliek Thompson faces charges including second-degree murder, first-degree assault, first-degree strangulation, and endangering the welfare of a child.
• Lovay Williams, 27, was found dead in her apartment on West 156th Street during a police wellness check on September 6.
• Williams’ 7-year-old daughter was the only other person in the apartment and opened the door for officers.
• Thompson surrendered to the 32nd Precinct on September 12 after previous attempts to turn himself in were reportedly unsuccessful.
• Prosecutors presented video evidence showing Thompson entering and exiting the apartment with bags on September 5 and 6.
• Thompson was arraigned on September 13, pleaded not guilty, and was remanded without bail by Judge Linda Capitti.

Background

This case follows a pattern of violent domestic incidents in New York City where children are present during the crime. The victim, Lovay Williams, was a mother of one, and her daughter is now in the care of her grandmother. The case highlights the ongoing challenges of domestic violence and child welfare in the city. Previous coverage in our archive noted similar cases of domestic violence and child endangerment in the area, emphasizing the need for stronger protective measures and community support for affected families.

How outlets are covering it

Gothamist reported that Thompson was charged with second-degree murder, first-degree assault, first-degree strangulation, and endangering the welfare of a child, and that he was arraigned on September 13. NBC New York reported that Thompson was arrested on charges of murder, strangulation, and child abandonment, and that the victim’s family confronted him outside the precinct. The New York Daily News reported that the victim’s family erupted in court, demanding Thompson be put to death, and that the defense attorney cited online threats against his client. The outlets differ in the specific charges reported, with Gothamist and the Daily News listing more detailed charges, while NBC New York reported a broader set of charges. The outlets also differ in the emphasis on the family’s reaction, with the Daily News providing more detail on the family’s outrage and the defense’s response to online threats.

Why it matters

This case underscores the severe impact of domestic violence on children and the importance of timely intervention and protective measures. The presence of a 7-year-old child during the incident highlights the need for stronger support systems for victims and their families. The case also raises questions about the effectiveness of police response and the role of community support in preventing such tragedies. The family’s outrage and the defense’s response to online threats reflect the broader societal tensions surrounding domestic violence cases and the need for balanced, fair legal proceedings.

What to watch

Thompson’s next court date is scheduled for September 18. The case will likely proceed to trial, where the evidence presented by prosecutors, including video footage and witness testimony, will be crucial in determining the outcome. The victim’s family is expected to continue advocating for justice and support for the child. The defense may challenge the evidence and seek to mitigate the charges, potentially leading to a lengthy legal process. The case will also likely draw attention to the need for stronger protective measures and community support for victims of domestic violence and their families.