A Pennsylvania man, Maxwell Hawkins, 37, is facing charges after his wife, Nicole Vega, was found dead from a single gunshot wound to the head. Authorities allege Hawkins left Vega’s body in a pool of blood for their three children to discover. Hawkins was arrested Thursday on charges unrelated to the murder, including child endangerment and public drunkenness.
The disturbing case came to light after police responded to the Hawkins residence around 11:20 p.m. According to PBS affiliate WVIA-TV, a neighbor, Michael Schwarz, had already removed the children from the home by the time officers arrived. Schwarz explained that Hawkins had called him earlier from a convenience store, stating he and Vega had argued and claiming she was “acting weird.” Hawkins expressed concern that Vega might harm herself.
Schwarz told police he encouraged Hawkins to return home to be with Vega. However, Hawkins later called again, reportedly saying Vega “was gone.” This prompted Schwarz to rush to the house, evacuate the children, and call 911.
When officers entered the home, they found Hawkins in the kitchen, visibly intoxicated and exhibiting “extremely erratic” behavior. Police described him as mumbling incoherently, making it challenging to understand his statements. When questioned about Vega’s whereabouts, Hawkins pointed upstairs. However, officers ultimately found Vega’s body outside near the pool.
According to police, Hawkins claimed Vega had “cheated on him” when confronted about her death. Despite the circumstances, he has not yet been charged with murder. Hawkins was arraigned Friday and is scheduled to appear before Magisterial District Judge Sean Gallagher on January 14. Unable to post bail, Hawkins remains in Lackawanna County prison.
The tragic death has left the couple’s three daughters in the care of their aunt, Destinney. Vega’s family has created a GoFundMe campaign to cover funeral expenses and provide financial support for the children. The fundraiser reads: “On Thursday, January 2nd, Nicole Vega tragically passed away, leaving behind 3 beautiful daughters.
We are looking for donations to help lay Nicole to rest respectfully as she deserves and to assist with the extra financial care of the children.” As of Thursday, the fundraiser had raised $2,556 of its $10,000 goal. The family also expressed gratitude to those who have contributed clothing, food, and kind words during this difficult time. The investigation remains ongoing as authorities work to piece together the events leading to Vega’s death.