A Wisconsin mother is found dead after allegedly succumbing fatally to a domestic violence tragedy. The investigation led by authorities in Milwaukee reveals the discovery of the lifeless body of 41-year-old Tomitka Jurnett-Stewart within the confines of her vehicle's trunk.
Notably, Tomitka Stewart, aged 41, was last observed on Sunday evening in the vicinity of 10th Street and Center Avenue.
Investigation of a Missing Wisconsin Mother
Stewart's son, Lawrence Lejon-Jurnett took the proactive step of approaching the police department after her mother did not come home.
The homicide investigation commenced early Wednesday morning, April 17, in Milwaukee, following the discovery of 41-year-old Tomitka Jurnett-Stewart's body within the trunk of her vehicle.
According to statements from the Milwaukee Police Department, the vehicle was located around 10:30 a.m. that day, leading to the apprehension of a 41-year-old male in connection with the incident.
While authorities have refrained from disclosing the individual's identity, close relatives have indicated that he was engaged in a long-standing relationship with the victim.
Confirming the nature of the tragedy, law enforcement officials stated, "This incident is Domestic Violence related," with charges pending review by the Milwaukee County District Attorney's Office.
Tommy Jurnett, the father of Jurnett-Stewart, recounted learning about his daughter's disappearance on April 14, prompted by a call from his grandson reporting her failure to return home.
Concerned, Jurnett advised his 22-year-old grandson to wait until the following day before contacting the authorities. However, when Jurnett-Stewart did not reappear, he instructed his grandson to alert the police.
Expressing his apprehension, Jurnett, a former law enforcement officer, remarked, "This is going to be bad," underscoring the gravity of the situation.
Upon discovering his daughter's absence, Jurnett's other daughter took to online platforms, seeking public assistance in locating her sister. She emphasized identifying Jurnett-Stewart's red vehicle as a crucial lead.
By the ensuing Tuesday, law enforcement had intensified their efforts in the case, with Jurnett-Stewart's professional obligations further underscoring the urgency of her disappearance.
As a regional manager at Jersey Mike's, her absence without prior notice raised concerns among colleagues and superiors alike.
Community Mourning and the Family's Anguish
Authorities discovered Jurnett-Stewart's vehicle on Wednesday morning, with her lifeless body found inside the trunk.
Her father recounted being informed by the police about the arrest of a suspect, expressing the emotional weight of the situation, especially since it involves his daughter.
Jurnett reminisced about contacting his daughter's husband during her disappearance, only to receive responses indicating he had not seen her. Eventually, communication with the husband ceased, leaving Jurnett anxious and seeking answers.
Born on a San Antonio U.S. Air Force base, Jurnett-Stewart's vibrant spirit shone through her energetic nature and past involvement as a cheerleader in high school, her father shared. Tragically, her mother, Colette Lejon-Jurnett, passed away in 2007.
Despite the challenges she faced, Jurnett-Stewart was a devoted mother to her 10 children, including twins, and a son named Daniel, who passed away at a young age.
Her father recalled their last gathering during Thanksgiving, marked by a surprise birthday celebration.
Plans for Jurnett-Stewart's final resting place include a burial in Milwaukee alongside a commemorative ceremony in Tennessee, where cherished memories with extended family were formed.
Amidst their grief, the family finds solace in advocating for domestic violence awareness, echoing sentiments shared by the Sojourner Family Peace Center.
While resources exist for victims, the center stresses the importance of community support and connection in ensuring safety.
Reflecting on the impact of domestic violence, Lejon-Jurnett urges those affected to seek help and remember that they are not alone in their struggles. Expressing his longing for his mother's presence, he shares a heartfelt message of love and longing.
Lejon Jurnett said, "If I could say something to my mom, right now, I'd say, I love you and I care about you. Mom, I want you back."
In connection with Stewart's case, a 41-year-old suspect was arrested on Wednesday, although formal charges had not yet been filed by Thursday.
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