Dayton, Ohio – Tony Jackson, 32, has pleaded guilty to aggravated murder in connection with the fatal shooting of his ex-girlfriend, Matyka Brown, 34, at her home in Dayton in February 2025. Jackson originally faced 11 felony charges, including murder and aggravated burglary, following the shooting.
The Tragic Incident
On February 10, Jackson showed up at Brown’s home while she was there with her new boyfriend. After briefly leaving, Jackson returned to the house, broke in, and threatened Brown and her two daughters, ages 9 and 14, with a gun. According to Montgomery County Prosecutor Mat Heck, Jackson fired one shot at Brown as her daughters fled the home. He then shot and killed Brown as the girls ran to a neighbor’s house to seek help.
Brown’s neighbors quickly called 911 when the girls arrived at their home. When Dayton police arrived at the scene, they found Brown in her bedroom, dead from gunshot wounds.
Jackson’s History of Domestic Violence
The murder was the culmination of a documented history of domestic violence between Jackson and Brown. According to Prosecutor Heck, Jackson had been arrested for strangling Brown in October 2024, shortly after being released from prison. Jackson had served time for aggravated robbery and had only been out for four months before the October arrest. Following the strangulation incident, Jackson was sent back to prison but was released again on January 26, 2025, just two weeks before he killed Brown.
Plea Deal and Legal Proceedings
Jackson had faced a range of serious charges prior to his plea deal, including:
Aggravated murder
Murder
Aggravated burglary
Felonious assault
Tampering with evidence
Having weapons while committing a prior violent offense
However, as part of a plea deal, Jackson pleaded guilty to one count of aggravated murder, and all other charges were dismissed. His sentencing is yet to be scheduled, but the guilty plea ensures that Jackson will face consequences for his violent actions.
Family’s Heartfelt Response
In the wake of her tragic death, Brown’s family has shared their sorrow, particularly the pain of Brown’s two daughters, who witnessed the murder. The community has expressed its support, and Matyka Brown is remembered by her family and friends as a loving mother who was taken too soon.
