Wilmington Island, Georgia — Authorities in coastal Georgia say a 37-year-old man is facing multiple murder and family violence charges after his mother was found fatally stabbed inside her home, followed by the theft of her vehicle, a crime that triggered a multi-agency search across Chatham County.
Prosecutors allege the killing happened in late October 2025 at an apartment complex on Oyster Shell Road, a residential area on Wilmington Island, located just southeast of Savannah. The victim, 59-year-old Vida Martinez, was discovered by a family member, according to local officials.
Charges Filed After Grand Jury Indictment
A Chatham County grand jury has indicted Addison Martinez on several serious charges connected to his mother’s death. Court records show he is accused of:
- Malice murder
- Felony murder
- Aggravated assault
- Family violence
- Possession of a knife during the commission of a felony
Authorities say the charges stem from a violent encounter inside the victim’s residence that ended in her death.
Discovery of the Victim and Initial Investigation
Police say the investigation began after Vida Martinez was found inside her apartment suffering from at least one fatal stab wound. Emergency responders pronounced her dead at the scene.
According to law enforcement, the discovery quickly raised red flags, prompting a wider search when investigators learned that the victim’s car was missing.
Later that same night, officers located the vehicle abandoned in a commercial parking lot in Pooler, roughly 20 miles northwest of Wilmington Island. That discovery helped detectives identify the victim’s son as a person of interest.
Vehicle Recovery Leads to Manhunt
After locating the abandoned car, police launched a regional search effort. Officers circulated a photograph of Addison Martinez that investigators say was taken by his mother just one day before her death.
The manhunt lasted into the following day, with multiple agencies assisting as officers searched businesses and residential areas across Chatham County.
“They had a friend who lived in the same apartment complex and had actually heard screams from the interaction with the victim,” a nearby business employee told local media.
Arrest Made Day After Killing
On October 28, 2025 — one day after the victim’s body was discovered — police arrested Addison Martinez at a gas station in the same general area. He was taken into custody without incident and questioned by investigators.
Initially, Martinez was charged with felony murder, though prosecutors later expanded the charges following the grand jury review.
He is currently being held in the Chatham County Jail without bond.
Read Also: Indiana Woman Accused of Trying to Kill Toddler in Disturbing Late-night Incident
Prior Release From Jail Raises Questions
Court records show that just five days before the killing, Martinez had been released from jail in Glynn County after spending roughly eight months in custody.
That earlier case involved charges of aggravated assault and terroristic threats, and he was released on a bond totaling less than $200.
The timing of that release has drawn renewed scrutiny as the investigation into his mother’s death continues.
Victim Remembered as Devoted Mother and Grandmother
An obituary released by the family described Vida Martinez as a woman deeply devoted to her children and grandchildren, remembered for her faith, generosity, and love of art.
“Vida was a dearly devoted mother; her grandchildren especially being her pride and joy… An eternal optimist, always with a helping hand and a most generous heart.”
Family members and community members have since expressed shock over the loss, describing the killing as both tragic and deeply disturbing.
Case Moves Forward in Chatham County
Prosecutors have not released details regarding a possible motive, and no trial date has been announced. Investigators say the case remains active as evidence continues to be reviewed.
If convicted on the top charges, Martinez could face life in prison under Georgia law.
What are your thoughts on this case? Should bond rules be reviewed when violent charges are involved? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
