Great Lakes Wire

Michigan State Police (MSP) is continuing its investigation into the officer-involved fatal incident that took place in Kentwood on April 17, which resulted in the death of Samuel Sterling. The incident occurred when a member of the MSP Sixth District Fugitive Team was attempting to take Sterling into custody on outstanding warrants.

According to Col. James F. Grady II, director of the MSP, "When I spoke with Mr. Sterling’s family last week, I assured them the Michigan State Police is committed to the pursuit of justice and will conduct an impartial and thorough investigation."

The MSP officer involved in the incident has been suspended, and the investigation is being conducted by the Fifth District Investigative Response Team, a group of specially trained detectives assigned to investigate critical incidents involving MSP officers.

Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel has also become involved in the case, stating, "My public integrity unit has investigated dozens of police-involved incidents and is dedicated to providing a thorough and just review and resolution in each one."

The MSP investigation revealed that the incident occurred during a fugitive arrest operation in Kentwood. Officers observed Sterling at a gas station and attempted to arrest him, leading to a foot pursuit that ended in the Burger King parking lot, where the vehicle driven by the MSP member struck Sterling. Despite emergency medical support being summoned to the scene, Sterling later succumbed to his injuries at the hospital.

Director Grady expressed gratitude towards the Office of Attorney General for their involvement in the investigation and their commitment to conducting a timely review of the evidence in the case.

The Michigan Department of Attorney General will review the investigation to determine if any criminal charges will result from the incident. The MSP remains dedicated to ensuring a just and thorough investigation into the matter.