Crime
Eastern Market shooting: 40-year-old shooter acted in self-defense, no charges filed
The shooter’s actions were deemed justified as he faced a credible threat from Welch’s weapon.
A 40-year-old man has been cleared of charges in a double-fatal shooting that occurred during a Detroit Lions tailgate at Eastern Market on Sunday.
Wayne County Prosecutor Kym Worthy announced that the shooter acted in self-defense when confronted with a gun by Jalen Welch.
According to the investigation, a verbal altercation escalated into a physical fight involving several individuals near Shed 6.
Welch, who was not initially involved in the dispute, entered the scene brandishing a pistol.
The shooter, who was not part of the altercation, removed his own concealed weapon and fired a single shot, striking Welch in the head.
Tragically, the bullet passed through Welch and fatally struck Rayshawn Palmer, who was attempting to intervene as a peacemaker.
Prosecutor Worthy stated that under Michigan law, individuals have the right to use force, including deadly force, to protect themselves or others from imminent death or great bodily harm.
In this case, the shooter’s actions were deemed justified as he faced a credible threat from Welch’s weapon.
The incident has prompted discussions about safety measures at future Lions tailgates.
Eastern Market and Detroit police are exploring options such as weapons-free zones and metal detectors to prevent similar tragedies.
Christian County, Mo. — Authorities have identified the suspect accused of fatally shooting a deputy with the Christian County Sheriff’s Office during a traffic stop as Richard Bird.
At the time the Blue Alert was issued, the suspect had not yet been taken into custody.
According to law enforcement officials, the deputy initiated a traffic stop involving a 2001 Chevrolet extended cab pickup truck along State Highway 160 near Highlandville.
During the stop, the suspect allegedly opened fire, fatally wounding the deputy before fleeing the scene.
The suspect was reported to have traveled southbound on Highway 160 following the shooting.
Authorities described the suspect vehicle as a black 2001 Chevrolet extended cab pickup truck equipped with a silver brush guard, black body trim, tinted rear windows, and a three-ball trailer hitch. The vehicle was bearing Missouri license plate 9MG-X36.
A statewide Blue Alert was issued to notify the public and assist in locating the suspect.
Law enforcement officials urged residents not to approach the vehicle or suspect if located, but instead to immediately call 911 and provide detailed information while remaining at a safe distance.
Christian County is situated south of Springfield and north of Branson, an area that sees significant travel due to its proximity to the Ozarks.
Multiple agencies across the region coordinated efforts in response to the alert.
Authorities have not yet released further details regarding the circumstances surrounding the shooting or the status of the investigation.
Law enforcement officials expressed their condolences to the deputy’s family, colleagues, and the community as they continue to pursue justice in the case.