In the early hours of a Monday morning in Muskegon, Michigan, the life of Shaune A. Ellcey Sr. was tragically cut short. On June 10, 2019, the 39-year-old Caucasian man was found outside a residence on the 1900 block of Austin Street with a gunshot wound to his head. First responders rushed him to Hackley Hospital, but his injury proved to be fatal. At the time of his death, Ellcey, a lifelong resident of the Muskegon area, was engaged to be married and was looking forward to celebrating his 40th birthday later that year. He worked in residential construction and was a father to one son and a stepfather to five other children.
The investigation into Ellcey's death quickly led the Muskegon Police Department to two suspects who were known to him. Michael Williams and Patrick Hotz, both 36 at the time, were taken into custody. The nature of their relationship with Ellcey was not immediately made public. Authorities urged the community to come forward with any additional information that could aid in the investigation.
Following their arrests, both men faced serious charges. Michael Williams was charged with open murder and three weapons-related offenses. Patrick Hotz was charged with tampering with evidence in a major crime, a felony that carries a potential prison sentence of up to 10 years. Both men were also identified as fourth-degree habitual offenders, which could lead to enhanced sentencing if convicted. The charges brought against Williams and Hotz marked a significant step towards seeking justice for the untimely death of Shaune Ellcey.
