EASTPOINTE, MI — A tragic scene unfolded Friday evening in Eastpointe, Michigan, as gunfire erupted outside a Foot Locker store near the intersection of 8 Mile Road and Kelly. The violent incident has left one man dead and two others fighting for their lives in critical condition, sparking fear and outrage in the close-knit community.
According to initial reports from the Eastpointe Police Department, officers responded to multiple emergency calls just after 6:30 p.m., when witnesses described hearing a series of gunshots ring out in the parking lot of the busy shopping area. Upon arrival, law enforcement discovered three male victims suffering from gunshot wounds. One of the victims, whose identity has not yet been released pending family notification, was pronounced dead at the scene. The other two were transported by ambulance to a nearby hospital, where they remain in critical condition.
Authorities have cordoned off the area and launched a full-scale investigation into the deadly shooting, which they believe may have been targeted. Police have not yet confirmed whether a suspect is in custody, nor have they provided details about the motive behind the attack. Investigators are currently reviewing surveillance footage from nearby businesses and interviewing potential witnesses.
“This is a deeply disturbing incident that has shaken our city,” said Eastpointe Police Chief Chad Stoj. “We are using every available resource to uncover the facts and bring those responsible to justice. We ask anyone with information to come forward.”
As news of the shooting spread, a heavy police presence remained at the scene late into the night. Yellow crime scene tape blocked access to the Foot Locker store and surrounding parking lot as detectives combed the area for shell casings and other forensic evidence.
Local residents and shoppers who were in the vicinity at the time of the shooting described a chaotic and terrifying scene. “I heard the shots and saw people running and screaming,” said Alicia Monroe, a witness who had just left a nearby grocery store. “It was like something out of a nightmare.”
The Eastpointe community, already grappling with issues related to rising crime in certain areas, is now reeling from the violence. City officials and local leaders have expressed their condolences to the victims’ families and are urging the public to remain calm while the investigation continues.
“We mourn for the life lost and stand with the families affected by this senseless act of violence,” said Mayor Monique Owens in a statement. “Eastpointe will not tolerate such acts, and we will continue working with law enforcement to ensure our city is safe for everyone.”
Authorities are urging the public to avoid the area near 8 Mile and Kelly while the scene remains active and investigations are ongoing. Residents with any information related to the incident are encouraged to contact the Eastpointe Police Department or submit anonymous tips through Crime Stoppers.
As the investigation develops, the community holds its breath, hoping for answers—and justice—in the wake of a deadly shooting that has left a permanent scar on a quiet Friday evening in Eastpointe.
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