Detroit Police Chief Todd Bettison has refuted claims that his department sought a warrant against Tateona Williams, the mother of two children who tragically died in a casino parking garage.
The statement comes amid widespread speculation following reports that Detroit authorities had requested charges in the case.
In an official response, Chief Bettison clarified the department’s stance:
“The Detroit Police Department has completed its investigation into their deaths and submitted the findings to the Wayne County Prosecutor’s Office for review. DPD has not requested charges to be filed against any family members of the children.”
Bettison further emphasized that any decisions regarding prosecution will be solely at the discretion of the Wayne County Prosecutor’s Office.
Media Reports and Misinformation
On March 12, several major news outlets, including Fox News, reported that the Detroit Police Department had submitted a warrant request for Williams.
However, Bettison’s statement contradicts these claims, making it clear that no charges have been recommended by his office.
Williams, a mother of five who was experiencing homelessness, has been at the center of national attention following the tragic deaths of her two children in a van parked at Detroit’s Greektown Casino garage.
Tragic Circumstances Surrounding the Deaths
Initial reports suggested that the children, who had been sleeping in the van, succumbed to hypothermia after the vehicle shut off overnight in freezing temperatures.
However, a subsequent coroner’s report confirmed that the official cause of death was carbon monoxide poisoning.
Authorities have not disclosed additional details regarding the timeline of events leading up to the deaths. The Wayne County Prosecutor’s Office has yet to issue an official statement on whether charges will be filed in connection with the case.
As the investigation progresses, many are awaiting the prosecutor’s decision regarding potential legal action. The case has sparked discussions about homelessness, child welfare, and access to resources for vulnerable families in Detroit.
