TERRIFYING information has come to light in the wake of a news anchor’s death in what the authorities are calling an attempted murder-suicide.
At a vicious attack in his Michigan home, Jim Matthews, 57, was allegedly killed by a family friend. His son and girlfriend were also seriously hurt.
Nichole Guertin, 35, the girlfriend of the WWJ 950 evening anchor, was discovered bleeding, bound, and taped in a parking area not far from the Chesterfield Township home she lived with Matthews.
Despite suffering many knife wounds, she was able to leave the house with the couple’s 5-year-old daughter Rosie and flag down a passing motorist who dialled 911, according to authorities.
The home’s closet contained the body of Matthews’ 10-year-old son, Hunter. Before getting attacked with a hammer, bound with duct tape, and placed in the closet, he apparently tried to wrestle the attacker.
According to WXYZ, the youngster had brain and ear surgery, and his condition is severe.
“I think Hunter was trying to fight off this man who was hitting and trying to kill his father, and that’s how Hunter ended up injured and chained and placed into a closet,” Matthews’ brother Joe Nicolai told the neighbourhood news source.
The five-year-old daughter was also hurt, but she is doing okay right now.
The 54-year-old male suspect was discovered overdosing and with self-inflicted injuries in the basement of the house, according to the police.
He was a frequent visitor to the house and knew the victims, according to the authorities.
After receiving Narcan resuscitation, the suspect was sent to the hospital in stable condition. The police have not yet disclosed his identify.
In shock, Matthews’ coworkers paid tribute to him, calling him “one of the nicest individuals you’ll ever meet.”
A statement from WWJ Newsradio 950 said, “Jim will be deeply missed. There have been many tears shed in our newsroom today.”
“Our thoughts and prayers go out to Jim’s family and friends during this difficult time.”
Authorities are still unclear on the motive of the attack and no criminal charges have currently been issued.
