More details are revealing themselves about what led to the tragic deaths of Jennifer Hudson’s mother, brother and nephew.

Reports say, in early October, suspect William Balfour accused his estranged wife Julia (Jennifer’s sister) of having a boyfriend.  He threatened to harm her family if she didn’t end things.  Julia brushed off the threat as he had made similar statements in the past.  A couple weeks later, when at the Hudson’s house, he saw a gift that was given to Julia by her boyfriend.  He again threatened her.  And allegedly made good on his promise about an hour later. 

Here’s the lesson:  if someone threatens bodily harm to you or your loved ones, take it seriously.  Call the police.  Have documentation.  I don’t know if it would have made a difference in this case or not.  But what if it would have?  The mother in me is just so sad about this case.

William Balfour, the estranged husband of Julia Hudson, was finally arrested in the killings of Jennifer Hudson’s brother, mother and nephew. He’d been in prison since the murders on a parole violation, but today was transferred to Chicago detectives to be charged with the murders.

The death penalty will be way too good for you, dude. I hope they put you in the general population of some prison, let everyone know you murdered an innocent boy in cold blood, and just let you get stabbed and ass-raped for the rest of your life.

William Balfour, the person of interest in the Hudson family murders, may have told his girlfriend that he was involved in the slayings.  There have also been reports that he told other sources he was in the Hudson home the morning of the killings.

Tomorrow is a big day as Balfour will be in court for a parole hearing.  A state investigator will be presenting any evidence gathered that could implicate William.  If there is not probable cause to believe he has committed a crime or parole violation,  he could be released. 

I pray for peace and justice for the Hudson family.

More than a week after the murder of Jennifer Hudson’s mother, brother and nephew, Vogue editor and friend Andre Leon Talley has said that Jennifer is doing “very, very well.  She’s very strong.” 

Today a private memorial is being held for the family.  Jennifer’s cousin, Demitrias Jackson has indicated that Hudson will take a break from acting to focus on family.

Continued prayers and strength go out to the Hudson family.

Jennifer Hudson has offered a $100,000 reward for the safe return of her nephew Julian.  The FBI is involved in the search for him.

Julian’s stepfather William Balfour is still in police custody but no charges have been filed against him.

TMZ is reporting that the double homicide of Jennifer Hudson’s mother and brother could have been motivated by a dispute over a car.  I don’t know that there are many good reasons to commit murder but this would be especially senseless.  I’ll post updates on this story as they become available.

UPDATE 7:43 ET- Jennifer Hudson’s sister Julia pled for the safe return of her son at Pleasant Gift Missionary Baptist Church in Chicago.  “All I ask, I don’t care who you are, just let my baby go. Please. I just want my son.”  The little boy’s stepfather, William Balfour, has not told police where the child may be.

According to Fox News, the mother and brother of actress-singer Jennifer Hudson, were found murdered in their Chicago home today at approximately 3PM.  Not much information has been released yet but they apparently sustained fatal gunshot wounds.

Sincere condolences go out to the Hudson family.