Horrifying Murder of Tamarac Mom Sparks Outrage Over Police Negligence

TAMARAC, FL — Newly released 911 calls reveal that Mary Gingles, a 34-year-old mother from Tamarac, Florida, repeatedly reached out to police, warning them about her estranged husband’s threats in the weeks before he allegedly killed her.

Her worst fears became reality on February 16, when Nathan Gingles, 42, broke into her home and fatally shot her father. Moments later, he chased her to a neighbor’s house and killed both Mary and the neighbor before kidnapping their 4-year-old daughter, Seraphine.

The chilling details of her final weeks have now sparked outrage, with authorities facing tough questions about why they failed to protect her.

Ignored Warnings and Desperate Calls for Help

Mary wasn’t just afraid she was convinced Nathan was planning to kill her.

In December, she discovered a tracking device hidden on her car and immediately reported it to the Broward Sheriff’s Office (BSO). Then, she found a suspicious backpack in her garage filled with duct tape, zip ties, and a chilling note referencing “air embolisms” (a potential method of murder).

She called the police a total of 14 times, repeatedly asking for updates on her complaints and warning officers that she was in grave danger.

Despite her pleas, no arrests were made, and no action was taken.

A Tragic End

On the morning of February 16, Nathan allegedly stormed into Mary’s home and shot her father, 64-year-old David Ponzer. Mary ran to a neighbor’s house, but he followed and killed them both.

He then took their 4-year-old daughter, prompting a statewide Amber Alert. Police eventually found Nathan and Seraphine in North Lauderdale later that day. She was unharmed, but he was arrested and is now facing charges of first-degree murder and kidnapping.

Police Under Fire

After the murders, Broward County Sheriff Gregory Tony admitted that deputies failed Mary. Seven officers have since been placed on administrative leave as an internal investigation unfolds.

Sheriff Tony didn’t hold back, calling his department’s response “piss poor” and saying, “We could have done better and we didn’t.”

This case has now put a spotlight on how domestic violence cases are handled. Advocates are demanding changes in how police respond to victims who fear for their lives.

A Wake-Up Call

Mary Gingles did everything she could to protect herself. She called the police. She sought a restraining order. She tried to escape.

Yet, in the end, the system failed her.

Her story is a painful reminder that when victims ask for help, authorities must listen before it’s too late.