Murder Charges Filed In Matthews Killing
• The man accused in the murder of WWJ Newsradio 950/Detroit overnight anchor Jim Matthews and the attack on his family in their Macomb County home last week has been charged with seven felonies, including first degree murder.
As WWJ reports, the alleged killer has been identified as Arthur “Van” Williamson, a convicted felon who has been charged with a total of seven felonies in this case, including one count of first degree murder. Macomb County Prosecutor Pete Lucido said Williamson was known to the family, though investigators are still working to determine the exact relationship. “He wasn’t unwelcome, he was a welcome individual, so that means he had the access by way of being intentionally allowed into the home, and not somebody who broke into the home,” Lucido said.
Bond was denied when Williamson appeared for a video arraignment Monday afternoon. Magistrate Joseph Pawlecki declined to hear arguments from attorneys regarding bond, noting the seriousness of the charges against Williamson and stating that he is “a danger to the community.”
The charges are as follows: 1 count of first degree, premeditated murder; 1 count of felony murder; 3 counts unlawful imprisonment, and 2 counts of assault with intent to commit murder. A not guilty plea was entered on the defendant’s behalf and Williamson’s next hearing was set for Oct. 5. [Photo courtesy of the Michigan Dept. of Corrections]
