Christmas evening led to the death of a man at a Northeast Side Grand Rapids residence after he suffered a gunshot wound allegedly inflicted by a woman at the residence, according to police.
According to news reports, a domestic dispute took place at 57 Leonard St. NE at around 7:30 Christmas night, following by a 34-year-old man being shot at least one time. The alleged victim was taken to Spectrum Health Butterworth Hospital, where he died. Additionally, three children who were said to be younger than 10 years old were present in an upstairs room at the residence.
Police arrived to find the victim in the driveway. Police said that according to the woman at the residence, she had just shot the man, who she said was her boyfriend. Detectives learned that the man had fled from inside the home after being shot inside, where he collapsed in the driveway. The alleged suspect was not injured, and was taken into custody by police. Police believe that the woman and the victim were parents to at least one of the children inside the home.
The incident is still under investigation, and police did recover a handgun at the scene although they are not certain whether the gun was registered.
Michigan criminal defense lawyers know that often, individuals resort to using guns, knives or other measures when they are the victims in a domestic violence situation. According to media reports, this situation began as the result of a domestic dispute, and the alleged shooter apparently did not attempt to hide the fact that she had been the person who shot the victim. Might she have been the victim in ongoing domestic violence?
Still, even when someone is a victim and resorts to using a weapon to defend him or herself against violence, it is essential to retain the services of a skilled Michigan criminal defense attorney. Police and prosecutors do not typically take these situations at face value; although you may feel it is obvious you acted in self-defense, you may find yourself facing homicide or murder charges. Protect your legal rights and freedom by consulting with an experienced lawyer.