Joseph King Westland, MI Obituary – Westland, MI – April 16, 2025: A tragic murder-suicide is under investigation in Westland, Michigan, after two people were found dead inside a home on Tuesday evening, April 15. The Westland Police Department confirmed that 52-year-old Joseph King and 46-year-old Melissa Hattar, both residents of Westland, were discovered deceased from apparent gunshot wounds in what authorities believe was a domestic-related incident.
911 Call Sparks Urgent Police Response
At approximately 7:20 p.m., Westland Police dispatchers received a chilling 911 call from a man who stated that he had just shot his girlfriend and was going to take his own life. During the call, the dispatcher heard what sounded like a gunshot, followed by complete silence on the open line.
The call immediately prompted an emergency response.
Forced Entry and Grim Discovery
Police officers were dispatched to the 1400 block of Surrey Heights, where the call had originated. Fearing an active and dangerous situation, officers made a forced entry into the home. Inside, they found two individuals—later identified as King and Hattar—both suffering from fatal gunshot wounds.
Once the scene was secured, the Westland Fire Department arrived. Tragically, both individuals were pronounced dead at the scene, and no lifesaving measures could be taken.
Victims Identified
The deceased have been identified as:
- Joseph King, 52, of Westland
- Melissa Hattar, 46, of Westland
According to police, both individuals lived together at the Surrey Heights address. No further individuals were in the home at the time of the incident. 
Investigation Ongoing
The Westland Police Department has stated that the investigation is still in its early stages, and detectives are actively gathering evidence and speaking with individuals who may have had contact with the couple in the days leading up to the incident.
Authorities have not released information about what may have led to the violence but confirmed that they are treating the case as a murder-suicide, with Joseph King believed to be the shooter.
A Community in Shock
The tragic event has rocked the quiet Westland neighborhood. Community members have expressed sorrow and disbelief, with many leaving messages of condolence for the families of both victims.
The Westland Police Department is urging anyone with additional information about the incident to come forward as they continue to investigate this heartbreaking case. Fneral memorial soon…
Reference: Case No. 250017721
If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence or suicidal thoughts, help is available. Call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233 or the National Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988.
