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WWJ anchor Jim Matthews, 57, found dead in murder-suicide attack with 4 others injured

Matthews' girlfriend and two children along with the 54-year-old unidentified suspect have been hospitalized with severe wounds

CHESTERFIELD TOWNSHIP, MICHIGAN: Jim Matthews, an overnight anchor at WWJ-AM, died after an alleged murderer attacked him on Friday, September 23. The horrific incident has also sent Matthews’ girlfriend and his two children to the hospital. The age of the woman is believed to be 35 while the children are five and ten-year-olds.

Though the identity of the suspect has not been revealed, it has been said that he’s 54-year-old and was known to the family. Reports also said that the accused has also been admitted to the hospital after he tried to take his life following the attack. Chesterfield Township Police Chief Brian Bassett said, “Our investigation has determined this is an isolated tragedy that does not present a danger to our community at this time. The Chesterfield Public Safety Department will not rest until we have received justice for our victims.”

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As per reports, Matthews’ girlfriend somehow managed to flee the crime scene with the five-year-old girl before a motorist stopped and helped her and also called the police. The woman reportedly had stab injuries as she and the child were taken to the hospital. When the cops arrived at Matthews' house in Chesterfield Township, they reportedly found the 57-year-old news radio anchor dead. His ten-year-old son was, however, found alive but severely wounded inside a closet.

Police officers were also reportedly able to find the accused murderer in the basement of the house. He was at the time suffering from self-inflicted injuries and a drug overdose. The reason behind the apparent violent assault is yet to be determined, The New York Post reported.

Meanwhile, WWJ 950 released a statement remembering Matthews. It read, “WWJ Newsradio 950's Jim Matthews was tragically killed Friday afternoon in Chesterfield Township. Jim worked as the overnight news anchor for nearly seven years. He would often talk to co-workers about his children and his love for them and their adventures at school.”

“He was a consummate professional and was dedicated to WWJ and the broadcasting industry. He loved delivering the latest news to his listeners. There have been many tears shed in our newsroom this afternoon. Our thoughts and prayers go out to Jim's family and friends. Our colleagues at CBS News Radio Network also paid their respects to Jim during their 8 p.m. news report,” the statement added.

Several people paid their tribute to Twitter also with one writing, “My condolences to all of you.  We lost a beloved colleague suddenly last year.  In fact I announced it on the air.  It's hard, but I managed to put my emotions in a box and went on the air. I know you guys will continue to serve the greater Detroit metro as you always do.”

The second one tweeted, “🙏 I’m deeply sorry for your loss. We will continue praying for Jim’s family, friends and colleagues.” “My goodness, I listened to him a lot. What a nice voice, delivery, friendliness… I’m so sorry for all of you. What can we do?” the third one added.