A Manhattan man accused of fatally beating a woman in front of her young daughter sought protective custody during his arraignment on Sunday. Tiliek Shamel Thompson, 41, faces multiple charges, including murder and strangulation, in the death of 27-year-old Lovay Williams, who was killed inside her Washington Heights apartment on September 6.

According to prosecutors, Thompson attacked Williams while her 7-year-old daughter was present. After the killing, he reportedly removed evidence from the apartment in blue shopping bags and altered his appearance by cutting his hair in an attempt to evade authorities. Surveillance footage showed Thompson entering the apartment on September 5 and leaving the following day with two trips to collect items.

Thompson surrendered to police at the 33rd Precinct on Saturday amid reports that he had received various threats while on the run. His attorney, Neville “Nod” Mitchell, requested that the court grant protective custody for Thompson during his detention, citing a psychological diagnosis. The judge approved this measure.

The victim’s family expressed outrage at Thompson’s request. Lovay Williams’ father, Nuquan Williams, vocally condemned the accused during the arraignment, calling for severe punishment. Outside the courtroom, Williams’ aunt, Missy Wright, and cousin, Lexus Singleton, denounced the defense’s portrayal of Thompson, with Singleton stating that the family expects justice and believes the evidence against Thompson is strong.

Thompson’s lawyer suggested there may be additional individuals involved, proposing that someone else could have accessed the apartment through a window. However, no further suspects have been publicly identified.

Following the incident, Thompson fled but ultimately chose to turn himself in as law enforcement intensified their search. Williams’ father told reporters that Thompson realized his wrongdoing and faced mounting pressure that left him no option but to surrender.

The victim’s mother, Moinica Manners, commented on the impact of the crime on her granddaughter, noting the young child is coping as well as can be expected under the circumstances.

Thompson was ordered held without bail as the legal process moves forward. Authorities continue to review the evidence surrounding the case.