Man Charged with Murder of Washington Heights Mother
A 41-year-old man is facing murder charges in connection with the death of a Washington Heights mother who was brutally attacked in front of her 7-year-old daughter, according to police reports.
Images show Tiliek Shamel Thompson being led away by detectives from the 33rd Precinct after facing charges in the case involving 27-year-old Lovay Williams.
Thompson showed up voluntarily at the 33rd Precinct earlier in the day, per his attorney, Neville Dexter.
“He’s at the precinct right now,” Dexter mentioned just before the charges were officially announced.
Authorities discovered Williams unresponsive in her apartment at 535 W. 156th St. around 1:30 p.m. on September 6, during a wellness check.
Upon arrival, officers noted injuries to her face and neck. Emergency medical services pronounced her dead at the scene.
At that time, her young daughter was also in the apartment.
Initially, Thompson had been named by law enforcement as a person of interest in the investigation.
Dexter remarked that there were social media allegations against his client before Thompson’s decision to turn himself in.
“Everyone should hold off on forming opinions,” the lawyer stated. “We’re still uncertain about what truly occurred.”
Williams’ brother, Nuquan, expressed his strong feelings, insisting that the person responsible should face consequences.
“Man up to the things you did!” he declared. “This is horrific. You shouldn’t be free to live your life after taking someone else’s.”
Asia Walker, who identified herself as Williams’ “God sister,” shared that Thompson and Williams had been together for a considerable period.
“It’s confusing to me because we’ve known this man for a long time,” Walker said. “I don’t even know what led to this. She never mentioned them having any arguments.”
Walker mentioned that Thompson’s surrender could provide some comfort to Williams’ family.
“Honestly, I feel a bit reassured knowing he won’t hurt anyone else, and my niece can have some peace,” she added. “Tomorrow might be slightly better for me. I might actually manage to sleep at night.”
A memorial featuring balloons, flowers, and candles has been set up outside Williams’ apartment building in her memory.
