SOUTHFIELD, MICHIGAN — A devastating family tragedy has shaken both Michigan and Ohio after 22-year-old Riley Donaldson, of Ohio, was accused of fatally shooting her mother, 44-year-old Ada Mae Simmons-Jones, inside her Southfield home on Sunday night, October 5, 2025.
According to Southfield Police, officers were dispatched to a residence on Bainbridge Drive at approximately 11:30 p.m. after a report of gunfire. The call came after the victim’s mother-in-law, who lives nearby, reportedly heard multiple gunshots and immediately phoned her son — Simmons-Jones’ husband — who then contacted police.
When officers arrived, they discovered Ada Mae Simmons-Jones inside the home, unresponsive and suffering from multiple gunshot wounds. Despite lifesaving efforts at the scene, she was pronounced dead shortly thereafter.
Investigators believe Riley Donaldson, the victim’s daughter, was the shooter. Following the deadly confrontation, Donaldson allegedly fled the scene and drove back to Ohio, leaving behind her purse and personal belongings inside her mother’s home. Authorities believe she may have discarded the firearm along the route, prompting police to search multiple areas for the weapon.
Inside the home, officers recovered spent shell casings, which have since been submitted for ballistic testing to determine whether the firearm used may be linked to any other crimes.
A Family Conflict Turned Fatal
Law enforcement officials have confirmed that this tragic event appears to stem from an ongoing custody dispute involving a 3-year-old girl — Riley’s child and Ada Mae’s granddaughter.
Back in August 2025, police responded to a call from Ada Mae Simmons-Jones, who told authorities that her daughter had taken the toddler without permission. That incident led to a multi-state search, and the child was later found safe in Ohio.
Tragically, during the October 5 shooting, the same 3-year-old child was inside the home. Authorities say the young girl was not physically harmed and is now in the care of a family member, while child protective services work alongside both Michigan and Ohio agencies to ensure her safety and well-being.
Search and Investigation Ongoing
Police in Southfield are coordinating with Ohio law enforcement and federal partners in the effort to locate and arrest Riley Donaldson, who remains at large. Warrants for her arrest are being processed, and authorities are urging anyone with information about her whereabouts to come forward immediately.
“This is an incredibly tragic case — one that highlights the devastating consequences of unresolved family conflict,” said a Southfield Police spokesperson. “Our detectives are working tirelessly with our partners across state lines to ensure that justice is served for Ms. Simmons-Jones and her loved ones.”
Community Mourning a Life Cut Short
Friends and neighbors describe Ada Mae Simmons-Jones as a kind, loving mother and grandmother who had been doing her best to support her daughter while caring for her granddaughter. Many in the Southfield community are now mourning her loss, leaving flowers, candles, and handwritten notes outside her Bainbridge Drive home.
As the investigation continues, authorities are asking anyone with information about Riley Donaldson’s location or the discarded weapon to contact the Southfield Police Department at (248) 796-5500, or submit an anonymous tip through Crime Stoppers.
Victim:
Ada Mae Simmons-Jones, 44, of Southfield, Michigan
Suspect:
Riley Donaldson, 22, of Ohio (Wanted – Homicide)
Child:
3-year-old female (safe, in family care)
