Man Charged In Domestic Violence Murder Of Puyallup Woman

PUYALLUP, WA - A man accused of killing his ex-girlfriend has been charged with second-degree murder. Michael Anthony Lee allegedly suffocated Ethelyn Rojas in her apartment last week, according to charging documents.

Police found Rojas at Lee's apartment along South Meridian early Thursday morning. Police reported that the 47-year-old died "due to homicidal domestic violence."

According to charging documents, Rojas' fiance went to her apartment Wednesday night after she didn't show up for work. He then drove to the Meridian West Apartments, where he knew Lee lived. The fiance saw Rojas' Jeep parked there and called police.

Police gained access to Lee's apartment, finding Lee pretending to sleep in one bedroom, Rojas' body on the floor, covered with a blanket, in another room. Rojas had apparently gone to Lee's apartment to pick up some belongings. After getting mad at Rojas, Lee allegedly threw her on the ground and covered her mouth with his hand until she died.

Neighbors told police that they heard yelling coming from Lee's apartment around 6:30 p.m. Wednesday.

"When the yelling stopped [neighbors] observed Lee exit the apartment and get into Rojas’ Jeep and drive it away. A short time later they saw Lee return to his apartment. After Lee returned they heard two very loud 'slams'. One of the neighbors went to Lee’s apartment and knocked on the door. Lee came to the door and told the neighbor that the argument was over and that 'she was done,'" charging documents read.

Lee is being held on a $1 million bail. His next court hearing is set for Nov. 8.

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