In the early morning hours of December 7, 2021, a fire was set at a home on Frederick Street near East Grand Boulevard in Detroit. Firefighters found 89-year-old William Whitley and his 62-year-old son, Natalino Whitley, dead near the back of the house after the blaze was extinguished. Both men, who were U.S. Veterans, had been shot multiple times before the fire began; an explosive device, possibly a Molotov cocktail, was reportedly thrown into the residence and sparked the flames.

The Detroit Police Department investigated the double homicide but has not announced any arrests. The motive remains unknown and the family has expressed bewilderment at why the attack occurred. Crime Stoppers is offering up to $12,500 for information leading to an arrest.

If anyone knew William or Natalino, or saw unusual activity around Frederick Street on the night of December 6–7, 2021, please share what you know with investigators.