Authorities Say Tony Jackson Jr. Waited Inside Matyka Brown’s Home Before Ambushing and Killing Her in a Premeditated Domestic Violence Attack
Dayton, OH –
A 32-year-old Dayton man, Tony Jackson Jr., is now facing multiple felony charges after allegedly breaking into his ex-girlfriend’s home, lying in wait, and fatally shooting her early Monday morning in what police have described as a cold-blooded, premeditated act of domestic violence.
The victim, 34-year-old Matyka Brown, was ambushed and shot twice inside her Millicent Avenue home, with her two daughters, ages 14 and 9, witnessing the horrifying attack before running to a neighbor’s house for help.
Authorities say Jackson forcibly entered the home through a window, disabled security cameras, and hid inside before launching his deadly attack.
911 Call Reveals Terrifying Moments as Brown’s Daughters Fled for Their Lives
Newly released court documents reveal disturbing details of the attack and the moments leading up to it.
A 911 call placed by a neighbor provides insight into the chaotic and terrifying aftermath:
“The kids came running to my house, screaming that their mom had been shot,” the caller told the dispatcher.
The neighbor immediately called emergency services, urging police and paramedics to respond as quickly as possible.
According to investigators, Jackson fired the first shot, injuring Brown, before her daughters ran from the house in fear for their lives. As they escaped, Jackson fired the second, fatal shot.
When police arrived, they found Brown unresponsive with a gunshot wound to the head. She was pronounced dead at the scene.
The Brutal Nature of the Crime: Jackson’s Premeditation and Violent Intent
Detectives have since uncovered disturbing evidence indicating that Jackson planned the attack in advance.
- Jackson disabled security cameras inside Brown’s home before shooting her.
- He broke in through a window, suggesting clear premeditation.
- He was already inside when Brown arrived, waiting to ambush her.
Legal experts say these details point to an intentional, premeditated murder, rather than a crime of passion.
“This was not a spontaneous act. The suspect had time to reconsider, to leave, to walk away. Instead, he stayed hidden and ambushed her,” said former prosecutor Linda Calloway.
History of Domestic Violence: A Tragic Pattern of Abuse
This was not Jackson’s first act of violence against Brown.
In October 2024, Jackson was arrested for allegedly strangling Brown. However, prosecutors said a grand jury declined to indict him, leading to a case dismissal.
Friends and family of Brown say she lived in fear of Jackson, but struggled to fully escape his control.
“She tried to leave. She tried to move on. But he wouldn’t let her,” said a close family friend who asked to remain anonymous.
Domestic violence experts emphasize that this case highlights the dangers of leaving an abusive relationship.
“Many victims of domestic violence are killed while attempting to separate from their abuser. That is when they are most vulnerable,” said Dr. Sandra Lopez, a specialist in domestic violence cases.
Jackson’s Extensive Criminal Record: A History of Violence and Armed Robbery
Jackson’s violent history extends far beyond domestic abuse.
According to Ohio prison records, Jackson served time for aggravated robbery and kidnapping.
In August 2019, Jackson and two accomplices carried out an armed robbery at the Ohio Loan Company on W. Third Street, where they:
- Pistol-whipped an employee.
- Fired gunshots inside the store.
- Stole more than two dozen firearms.
DNA evidence later linked Jackson to the crime, resulting in a conviction and prison sentence.
His prior criminal history is expected to play a significant role in his upcoming trial.
“A suspect with this kind of record will have a much harder time convincing a jury that this wasn’t premeditated,” said defense attorney Mark Thompson.
Legal Charges and Court Proceedings
On Wednesday, Jackson was formally charged with:
- Aggravated Murder (First-degree felony)
- Murder (First-degree felony)
- Felonious Assault (Second-degree felony)
- Aggravated Burglary (First-degree felony)
- Tampering with Evidence (Third-degree felony)
- Possession of a Weapon While Under Disability (Third-degree felony)
He is currently being held in the Montgomery County Jail on a $3 million bond.
His next court appearance is scheduled for next week.
Legal analysts predict that prosecutors will seek a life sentence.
“This case is a textbook example of why we have first-degree murder laws. If convicted, Jackson will likely never see the outside of a prison again,” said criminal justice professor Dr. William Hines.
Community Mourns Brown’s Death: Candlelight Vigil Planned
Brown’s family and friends are devastated by her senseless killing.
A candlelight vigil will be held this Saturday in Brown’s honor, with community members calling for stronger protections for domestic violence victims.
“She did everything for her kids. She was a great mother and a wonderful friend,” said family friend Nicole Carter.
The local domestic violence shelter Women’s Safe Haven has offered counseling and support to Brown’s daughters, who are now in the care of extended family.
What Can Be Done to Prevent Tragedies Like This?
Experts say cases like this highlight the need for better protections for domestic violence survivors.
According to the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence (NCADV):
- More than 50% of female homicide victims are killed by a current or former partner.
- Leaving an abusive relationship increases the risk of homicide by nearly 75%.
- Restraining orders are violated in 40% of cases.
Advocates are calling for:
- Stronger enforcement of protection orders.
- Harsher penalties for repeat domestic violence offenders.
- Increased access to safe housing for survivors.
“If we don’t act, more lives will be lost. We must do better,” said domestic violence advocate Rachel Gomez.
Domestic Violence Resources: Where to Get Help
If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, help is available.
Call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233 for confidential support.
This tragedy highlights the urgent need for greater protections for domestic violence survivors—so that no more families have to endure the pain and loss that Brown’s loved ones are facing today.
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