Ann Arbor, MI – A 40-year-old man from Ann Arbor, identified as Anthony Flanagan, is facing multiple charges including murder after allegedly breaking into a nearby home while unclothed, attacking a senior couple and ultimately killing an 81-year-old woman, authorities said. The violent incident, which also left the woman’s husband and their dog injured, occurred in the quiet Washtenaw County neighborhood late at night.
In a distressing scenario on the night of Sept. 13, reports indicate that Flanagan forcibly entered the home in the 1900 block of Breckland Drive, where Susan Erica Hammerton and her 82-year-old husband resided. Nicole Hughes, the assistant prosecuting attorney for Washtenaw County, relayed that the homeowner was awakened by his wife’s screams and was confronted by the sight of Flanagan standing naked inside their house.
Flanagan reportedly attacked Hammerton, left briefly, and then returned again armed with a knife. In the subsequent attack, he stabbed both Hammertons and their pet dog. The assailant had allegedly been trying to gain entry into other homes in the area before this attack, also screaming incoherently, which led to a 911 call and his subsequent arrest by the police.
During an emergency operation, Susan Erica Hammerton succumbed to her injuries. Her husband and their dog are currently recovering. Following his arrest, Flanagan was arraigned on charges including open murder, assault with intent to murder, first-degree home invasion, and second-degree animal cruelty among others, as presented before 15th District Court Magistrate Tamara Garwood.
During the arraignment, Flanagan mentioned an altercation with his mother and brother earlier that evening, although it is unclear how this may have impacted his actions later. According to officials, Flanagan did not have a prior acquaintance with the victims.
Kenneth Overwater, a public defender in Washtenaw County, highlighted potential mental health issues as a significant factor in the case. In response to these concerns and the severity of the charges, Magistrate Garwood denied bail for Flanagan, citing a risk to public safety and referred him for mental health evaluation, labeling his actions as unpredictable and bizarre.
“The community is deeply shaken by this event, especially considering the victims were long-standing residents known to many,” said a spokesperson for the Pittsfield Township Department of Public Safety. “Our focus remains on ensuring the safety and security of all our citizens.”
Flanagan remains in custody at the Washtenaw County Jail and is scheduled for a follow-up court appearance on Sept. 26. As the investigation continues, local law enforcement and community leaders are taking measures to assess and enhance security protocols in the neighborhood to prevent such incidents in the future.