SEATTLE, WA — July 10 2025 — A horrifying act of domestic violence has shaken the Bitter Lake neighborhood of North Seattle, where 31-year-old Kiara Sewell was found dead inside her apartment after suffering multiple sharp-force injuries. Authorities say the suspect is 55-year-old Willie James McCoo Jr. of Renton, who is now in custody and facing a charge of first-degree domestic violence murder.

Seattle Police responded to a welfare check on June 15 at the Aries at Bitter Lake Apartments, located in the 900 block of North 143rd Street. Inside, officers discovered the body of Kiara Sewell, a mother of four, in what officials have described as a gruesome crime scene. The King County Medical Examiner’s Office confirmed that Sewell had died from multiple sharp-force injuries, including the amputation of her left hand and significant trauma to her left arm. Her death has been ruled a homicide.

Timeline of Events and Surveillance Evidence

According to investigators, surveillance video captured Kiara and McCoo entering her apartment on June 9. No footage shows her ever leaving. In contrast, McCoo was seen exiting the apartment multiple times afterward, often carrying bags. Sewell’s body was not discovered until nearly a week later, on June 15, after family members expressed concern and contacted authorities.

Seattle detectives issued an arrest warrant and took McCoo into custody on July 7 at his workplace. A subsequent search of his locker revealed a large machete and a hunting knife, both of which investigators believe were used in the crime. The medical examiner noted that the wounds inflicted on Sewell were consistent with such weapons.

A History of Violence

Court documents show that McCoo has a long and violent history. In 2008, he was convicted of first-degree assault in a nearly fatal stabbing of a former partner. In that case, he inflicted deep wounds that nearly severed her carotid artery. McCoo served approximately 16 years in prison and was released in August 2024, less than a year before the killing of Kiara Sewell.

Prosecutors cited his criminal record and the brutality of the attack when requesting $4 million bail, which a judge granted. McCoo remains in custody and is expected to appear in court for arraignment on July 23.

Family Devastated by Loss

Kiara Sewell’s death has left a deep void for her family, especially her four young children who are now without their mother. Her mother, Taneika Tigner, spoke through tears:

“What they did to her is terrible… She did not deserve to be done the way she did. Justice needs to be served.”

Community members and advocates have begun organizing a vigil and memorial near her apartment complex to honor Kiara’s memory and raise awareness of the dangers of domestic violence.

A Community in Mourning

The Bitter Lake community has been left stunned by the brutality of the crime. Many are calling for more robust resources and protective services for survivors of domestic violence. Advocacy groups say Kiara’s murder is a tragic reminder of the urgent need to address repeat offenders and to offer stronger support for victims who are at risk.

Seattle City Council members and local organizations have pledged to support Sewell’s family and review the circumstances that allowed a previously convicted violent offender to reenter society with minimal supervision.