Great Lakes Wire

Today, the Department of Attorney General concluded its review of a firearm incident involving a Michigan State Police (MSP) Trooper in Buena Vista Charter Township. The department determined that the Trooper acted in self-defense and in defense of others. This investigation was initiated at the request of MSP.

The incident occurred on May 26, 2024, when MSP and Saginaw Police responded to locate a suspect involved in an alleged shooting. Officers stopped the suspect's vehicle on a roadway after identifying that a victim from the previous incident was inside. Gunshots were fired from within the suspect's vehicle, prompting a Trooper to fire once into the rear of the vehicle towards the driver. The bullet lodged in the driver's seat without causing injury, and no further shots were exchanged. The suspect eventually surrendered his weapon.

The Department's attorneys examined various materials including reports from both police departments, dispatch logs, 9-1-1 calls, dash-cam footage, and scene documentation. Law enforcement officers are authorized to use force for public safety but must balance human interests carefully. Decisions regarding force levels depend on perceived threats and their potential execution by suspects.

Given all known facts and circumstances at that time, it was determined that the Trooper's use of his firearm was justified and legal under self-defense laws.

The Department of Attorney General reiterates its readiness to assist with investigations into officer-involved shootings upon request by any county prosecutor or law enforcement agency within Michigan.