The following vignettes describe the circumstances for killings not ruled self-defense by private individuals with permits to carry concealed handguns. The incidents below all occurred in Michigan. The descriptions include the current, known status of any charges filed against the concealed carry killer as reported by news sources as well as noting instances where the perpetrator committed suicide.
The Violence Policy Center welcomes any new information regarding the status of any case (with verifiable source(s)). Use this link to contact the VPC: http://www.vpc.org/contact.htm.
Concealed Handgun Permit Holder: Names Not Provided SUICIDE
Date: Between October 1, 2021 and September 30, 2022
People Killed: 234
Circumstances: Between October 1, 2021 and September 30, 2022, Michigan State Police report that 234 Michigan concealed handgun permit holders took their own lives. In their annual report, the Michigan State Police do not release the victim’s name, the exact date of the suicide, nor the means employed in the suicide.
Source: Concealed Pistol Licensing Annual Report, October 1, 2021 to September 30, 2022, Michigan State Police.
Concealed Handgun Permit Holder: Names Not Provided CONVICTED
Date: Between October 1, 2021 and September 30, 2022
People Killed: 12
Circumstances: Between October 1, 2021 and September 30, 2022, Michigan State Police report that four Michigan concealed handgun permit holders were convicted of Moving Violation Causing Death, two Michigan concealed handgun permit holders were convicted of Operating – While Intoxicated Causing Death, one Michigan concealed handgun permit holder was convicted of Homicide – Murder 1st Degree Premeditated, three Michigan concealed handgun permit holders were convicted of Homicide – Murder 2nd Degree, and two Michigan concealed handgun permit holders were convicted of Homicide – Manslaughter – Statutory Short Form. In their annual report, the Michigan State Police do not release the offender’s name, the exact date of the event, nor the type of weapon used in the homicide.
Source: Concealed Pistol Licensing Annual Report, October 1, 2021 to September 30, 2022, Michigan State Police.
Concealed Handgun Permit Holder: Names Not Provided SUICIDE
Date: Between October 1, 2020 and September 30, 2021
People Killed: 201
Circumstances: Between October 1, 2020 and September 30, 2021, Michigan State Police report that 201 Michigan concealed handgun permit holders took their own lives. In their annual report, the Michigan State Police do not release the victim’s name, the exact date of the suicide, nor the means employed in the suicide.
Source: Concealed Pistol Licensing Annual Report, October 1, 2020 to September 30, 2021, Michigan State Police.
Concealed Handgun Permit Holder: Names Not Provided CONVICTED
Date: Between October 1, 2020 and September 30, 2021
People Killed: 8
Circumstances: Between October 1, 2020 and September 30, 2021, Michigan State Police report that three Michigan concealed handgun permit holders were convicted of Moving Violation Causing Death, one Michigan concealed handgun permit holder was convicted of Reckless Driving Causing Death, one Michigan concealed handgun permit holder was convicted of Homicide – Murder 1st Degree Premeditated, one Michigan concealed handgun permit holder was convicted of Homicide – Murder 2nd Degree, one Michigan concealed handgun permit holder was convicted of Homicide – Manslaughter – Statutory Short Form, and one Michigan concealed handgun permit holder was convicted of Homicide – Manslaughter – Involuntary. In their annual report, the Michigan State Police do not release the offender’s name, the exact date of the event, nor the type of weapon used in the homicide.
Source: Concealed Pistol Licensing Annual Report, October 1, 2020 to September 30, 2021, Michigan State Police.
Concealed Handgun Permit Holder: Myesha Gates CONVICTED
Date: July 3, 2020
People Killed: 1
Circumstances: On July 3, 2020, concealed handgun permit holder Myesha Gates, 27, shot and killed De’ja Mone’t Madison, 24, following a brief argument outside the East Park Manor housing complex in Muskegon Heights. Madison had been involved in a “heated exchange” with a group of eight to 10 people prior to the shooting. According to prosecutors, Gates fired twice with a 9mm handgun into the car that Madison was driving. When police arrived on the scene they found Madison dead in her vehicle. On March 4, 2021 Gates pleaded no contest to manslaughter in the shooting death of De’ja Mone’t Madison. Gates faces a sentence of up to 15 years in prison and up to a $7,500 fine.
Source: “Muskegon Heights woman takes manslaughter plea in shooting death of young mother,” mlive.com, March 4, 2021; “Woman charged with open murder in shooting of Muskegon woman,” mlive.com, July 6, 2020.
Concealed Handgun Permit Holder: Names Not Provided CONVICTED
Date: Between October 1, 2019 and September 30, 2020
People Killed: 10
Circumstances: Between October 1, 2019 and September 30, 2020, Michigan State Police report that four Michigan concealed handgun permit holders were convicted of Moving Violation Causing Death, two Michigan concealed handgun permit holders were convicted of Operating – While Intoxicated Causing Death, one Michigan concealed handgun permit holders was convicted of Moving Violation – Causing Death in a Work or School Bus Zone, one Michigan concealed handgun permit holder was convicted of Reckless Driving Causing Death, one Michigan concealed handgun permit holder was convicted of Homicide – Murder 1st Degree Premeditated, and one Michigan concealed handgun permit holder was convicted of Homicide – Murder 2nd Degree. In their annual report, the Michigan State Police do not release the offender’s name, the exact date of the event, nor the type of weapon used in the homicide.
Source: Concealed Pistol Licensing Annual Report, October 1, 2019 to September 30, 2020, Michigan State Police.
Concealed Handgun Permit Holder: Names Not Provided SUICIDE
Date: Between October 1, 2019 and September 30, 2020
People Killed: 184
Circumstances: Between October 1, 2019 and September 30, 2020, Michigan State Police report that 184 Michigan concealed handgun permit holders took their own lives. In their annual report, the Michigan State Police do not release the victim’s name, the exact date of the suicide, nor the means employed in the suicide.
Source: Concealed Pistol Licensing Annual Report, October 1, 2019 to September 30, 2020, Michigan State Police.
Concealed Handgun Permit Holder: Names Not Provided CONVICTED
Date: Between October 1, 2018 and September 30, 2019
People Killed: 10
Circumstances: Between October 1, 2018 and September 30, 2019, Michigan State Police report that four Michigan concealed handgun permit holders were convicted of Operating – While Intoxicated Causing Death, three Michigan concealed handgun permit holders were convicted of Homicide – Murder 2nd Degree, two Michigan concealed handgun permit holders were convicted of Homicide – Murder 1st Degree Premeditated, and one Michigan concealed handgun permit holder was convicted of Homicide – Manslaughter. In their annual report, the Michigan State Police do not release the offender’s name, the exact date of the event, nor the type of weapon used in the homicide.
Source: Concealed Pistol Licensing Annual Report, October 1, 2018 to September 30, 2019, Michigan State Police.
Concealed Handgun Permit Holder: Names Not Provided SUICIDE
Date: Between October 1, 2018 and September 30, 2019
People Killed: 183
Circumstances: Between October 1, 2018 and September 30, 2019, Michigan State Police report that 183 Michigan concealed handgun permit holders took their own lives. In their annual report, the Michigan State Police do not release the victim’s name, the exact date of the suicide, nor the means employed in the suicide.
Source: Concealed Pistol Licensing Annual Report, October 1, 2018 to September 30, 2019, Michigan State Police.
Concealed Handgun Permit Holder: Names Not Provided CONVICTED
Date: Between October 1, 2017 and September 30, 2018
People Killed: 7
Circumstances: Between October 1, 2017 and September 30, 2018, Michigan State Police report that five Michigan concealed handgun permit holders were convicted of Homicide – Murder 2nd Degree, one Michigan concealed handgun permit holder was convicted of Homicide – Manslaughter, and one Michigan concealed handgun permit holder was convicted of Operating – While Intoxicated Causing Death. In their annual report, the Michigan State Police do not release the offender’s name, the exact date of the event, nor the type of weapon used in the homicide.
Source: Concealed Pistol Licensing Annual Report, October 1, 2017 to September 30, 2018, Michigan State Police.
Concealed Handgun Permit Holder: Names Not Provided SUICIDE
Date: Between October 1, 2017 and September 30, 2018
People Killed: 169
Circumstances: Between October 1, 2017 and September 30, 2018, Michigan State Police report that 169 Michigan concealed handgun permit holders took their own lives. In their annual report, the Michigan State Police do not release the victim’s name, the exact date of the suicide, nor the means employed in the suicide.
Source: Concealed Pistol Licensing Annual Report, October 1, 2017 to September 30, 2018, Michigan State Police.
Concealed Handgun Permit Holder: Paul Thomas Gabriel CONVICTED
Date: September 25, 2018
People Killed: 1
Circumstances: On September 25, 2018, concealed handgun permit holder Paul Thomas Gabriel, 59, allegedly shot and killed Anthony “AJ” Federighe, 22, on a catwalk between the parking area and the condominium building where both men lived. According to prosecutors, the shooting stemmed from “an obsession” that Gabriel allegedly had with the victim’s father, which allegedly included Gabriel following the father around to the point that it “bordered on” stalking. Gabriel was charged with open murder, which includes first and second degree murder as well as manslaughter. The prosecutor can then choose to specify the charge later or leave it up to the judge or jury.
UPDATE: In October 2021, Paul Gabriel was convicted of first degree murder in the death of Anthony Federighe. In January 2022, Gabriel was sentenced to life in prison without parole.
Source: “Life in prison, no chance for parole for Muskegon man convicted of murder,” wzzm13.com, January 6, 2022; “Man charged with open murder in lakefront condo shooting,” mlive.com, September 27, 2018.
Concealed Handgun Permit Holder: Ruben Salinas SUICIDE
Date: May 9, 2018
People Killed: 1
Circumstances: On May 9, 2018, concealed handgun permit holder Ruben Salinas, 27, shot and killed himself following a car chase involving himself and his ex-girlfriend’s new boyfriend. According to news reports, on the night of May 9, 2018, Salinas arrived at the home of his ex-girlfriend at the same time as her new boyfriend. Salinas allegedly pulled a gun on the other man who then jumped into his car and fled, with Salinas driving after him. The men drove approximately five miles, and police say at least 12 shots were fired from two different guns during the chase. The man being chased called 911 and police pursued Salinas. The two men drove through the entrance to a hospital when Salinas’ car was rammed by a police officer as Salinas continued firing at the other man. Salinas’ car was rammed three times by police before coming to a stop. Salinas then fatally shot himself. Salinas had no prior convictions or documented mental health problems. A handgun, an AR-15 assault rifle, and a third weapon were recovered from Salinas’ car.
Source: “Shocking moment a scorned lover, 27, drives behind and shoots at his ex’s new boyfriend, 30, in a wild car chase before killing himself” The Daily Mail, May 12, 2018.
Concealed Handgun Permit Holder: Ashley Somerville CONVICTED
Date: November 11, 2017
People Killed: 1
Circumstances: On November 11, 2017, concealed handgun permit holder Ashley Somerville, 27, allegedly shot and killed her girlfriend, Shantel Johnson-Jackson, 27, following an argument in the parking lot at the apartment complex where Somerville lived. According to police the women were in an altercation prior to the shooting which took place in or near a vehicle. Somerville was charged with one count of open murder and one felony firearm count.
UPDATE: On August 20, 2018, Ashley Somerville pleaded no contest to second degree murder in the death of Shantel Johnson-Jackson. On October 1, 2018, she was sentenced to 12 to 25 years in prison.
Source: “’She brought a gun to a fistfight,’ prosecutor says of woman who killed girlfriend,” mlive.com, October 1, 2018; “Woman accused of killing girlfriend pleads no contest,” mlive.com, August 27, 2018; “Autopsy delays case for woman accused of fatally shooting girlfriend,” mlive.com, December 5, 2017; “27-year-old woman faces murder charge in shooting death of girlfriend,” mlive.com, November 14, 2017.
Concealed Handgun Permit Holder: Sandra Lynette Waller CONVICTED
Date: October 16, 2017
People Killed: 1
Circumstances: On October 16, 2017, concealed handgun permit holder Sandra Lynette Waller, 49, allegedly shot and killed Lorraine Maylynn Faison, 49, following a dispute at the Burlington’s store where the two worked. The women allegedly had a longstanding feud including a disagreement over how to discount merchandise at the store. According to police, Waller walked in to the store shortly after 7 A.M. and allegedly shot Faison. Waller was charged with first degree murder and a felony firearm charge.
UPDATE: On February 2, 2018, Sandra Lynette Waller pleaded guilty to second degree murder and felony firearms violation in the death of Lorraine Faison. Waller was sentenced to 16 to 40 years for murder and two years for the firearms violations.
Source: “Woman sentenced in murder of co-worker at Burlington Coat Factory in Taylor,” clickondetroit.com, February 20, 2018; “Woman charged with murder in shooting death of co-worker at Burlington,” thenewsherald.com, October 18, 2017.
Concealed Handgun Permit Holder: Michael Lewis Williams CONVICTED
Date: October 19, 2017
People Killed: 1
Circumstances: On October 9, 2017, an unidentified concealed handgun permit holder unintentionally shot and killed a 53-year-old woman who was being attacked by a stray dog in Detroit. According to police, the woman was mauled by a pit bull as she was out walking, when the man fired at the dog but hit her instead. She was shot in the hip and was taken to a hospital where she was pronounced dead. According to police, the man lived in the area and was trying to be a “good Samaritan.”
UPDATE: In March 2018, Michael Lewis Williams, 61, was charged with careless discharge of a weapon causing injury or death for allegedly firing the shot that killed Patricia Cosby as she was being attacked by a stray dog.
UPDATE: On August 15, 2018, Michael Lewis Williams pleaded no contest to careless discharge of a weapon causing injury or death in the shooting of Patricia Cosby and was sentenced to three months in jail with five years of probation.
Source: “Detroit man sentenced for neighbor’s fatal shooting during alleged dog attack,” clickondetroit.com, August 15, 2018; “Detroit man charged with killing woman during dog attack,” therepublic.com, March 15, 2018; “Man accidentally kills woman while shooting at pit bull attacking her: police,” wfmynews2.com, October 10, 2017.
Concealed Handgun Permit Holder: Name Not Provided CONVICTED
Date: Between October 1, 2016 and September 1, 2017
People Killed: 2
Circumstances: Between October 1, 2016 and September 30, 2017, Michigan State Police report that one Michigan concealed handgun permit holder was convicted of Homicide – Murder 2nd Degree and one Michigan concealed handgun permit holder was convicted of Operating – While Intoxicated Causing Death. In their annual report, the Michigan State Police do not release the offender’s name, the exact date of the event, nor the type of weapon used in the homicide.
Source: Concealed Pistol License Annual Report, October 1, 2016 – September 30, 2017, Michigan State Police.
Concealed Handgun Permit Holder: Name Not Provided SUICIDE
Date: Between October 1, 2016 and September 1, 2017
People Killed: 132
Circumstances: Between October 1, 2016 and September 30, 2017, Michigan State Police report that 132 Michigan concealed handgun permit holders took their own lives. In their annual report, the Michigan State Police do not release the victim’s name, the exact date of the suicide, nor the type of weapon used in the suicide.
Source: Concealed Pistol License Annual Report, October 1, 2016 – September 30, 2017, Michigan State Police.
Concealed Handgun Permit Holder: Unidentified UNINTENTIONAL
Date: November 13, 2016
People Killed: 1
Circumstances: On November 13, 2016, Jamari Moore, three, was unintentionally shot and killed by the 10-year-old son of his mother’s boyfriend while they were playing in a bedroom. According to police, the 10-year-old found a loaded and holstered handgun on a closet shelf about five and a half feet off the ground. “I’m sorry, it was an accident,” the 10-year-old reportedly told police over and over again, crying. The 10-year-old’s father, a concealed handgun permit holder, had a history of leaving his firearm in areas accessible to children in the home, including an incident two weeks prior to the fatal shooting, according to the Washtenaw County Sheriff’s Office. The sheriff’s office requested a manslaughter charge against the father, but prosecutors declined, instead suggesting the state legislature should “enact legislation regarding how a firearm must be safely stored within a residence.”
Source: “Detroit plays tough in accidental shootings involving kids,” usatoday.com, May 24, 2017; “Mother of 3-year-old fatally shot by other child: ‘Part of my world died,’” www.mlive.com, November 18, 2016.
Concealed Handgun Permit Holder: Carl Price CONVICTED
Date: August 18, 2016
People Killed: 1
Circumstances: On August 18, 2016, concealed handgun permit holder Carl Price, 24, shot and killed Robert Wray Jr., 34, when an argument involving the two and a third man escalated to the point of all three firing weapons. Police recovered Price’s 45 caliber handgun and Wray’s 9mm handgun at the scene, but never found the 40 caliber handgun that they believe was used by the third person, who was shot twice. In all, at least 18 shots were fired. Price, who claimed he was acting in self-defense, was convicted of voluntary manslaughter and felony firearm possession. According to the prosecutor, Price kept shooting Wray after he was already down and later tried to impede the investigation.
Source: “Man convicted of lesser charge of manslaughter in 2016 shootout in south Lansing,” www.lansingstatejournal.com, May 3, 2018.
Concealed Handgun Permit Holder: Zurlon Tipton UNINTENTIONAL
Date: June 28, 2016
People Killed: 1
Circumstances: On June 28, 2016, concealed handgun permit holder Zurlon Tipton, 26, unintentionally shot and killed himself at a car dealership in Michigan. Tipton, a former running back with the Indianapolis Colts, was removing a bag from the trunk of his car when one of the two guns in the bag went off, fatally wounding him in the stomach.
Source: “Former Colts RB Zurlon Tipton dead after accidentally shooting himself,” si.com, June 28, 2016; “Ex-Colts RB Zurlon Tipton dies from accidental gunshot,” indystar.com, June 28, 2016.
Concealed Handgun Permit Holder: Deangelo Gaines CONVICTED
Date: February 14, 2016
People Killed: 1
Circumstances: On February 14, 2016, concealed handgun permit holder Deangelo Gaines, 25, and his girlfriend, Kayla Babick, 24, were in the bedroom of her home. According to police, the couple were lying in bed watching television. Gaines’ .45 Springfield handgun was on the bed, after being cleaned and loaded. Gaines told police that Babick got up to answer the phone and when she got back into bed, the handgun discharged. A bullet struck her in the left side of her rib cage, and she staggered downstairs to the living room where she died. Gaines told police that she may have laid down on top of the handgun or somehow hit it with her hand, causing it to fire. Two other adults and Babick’s children, ages two and four, were also in the house at the time of the incident. Police stated that Gaines was too reckless in the handling of his gun and have recommended that he be charged with manslaughter.
UPDATE: On October 4, 2016, Deangelo Gaines pleaded no contest to careless discharge of a firearm causing death. The charge carries a maximum sentence of two years in prison, but as part of his plea agreement, Gaines will avoid jail time and be placed on probation.
Source: “Man enters plea in Valentine’s Day death of girlfriend,” battlecreekenquirer.com, October 4, 2016; “After woman dies in bed when gun fires, charges sought against boyfriend,” mlive.com, April 4, 2016; “Girlfriend killed on Valentine’s Day after boyfriend’s .45 caliber handgun fires in bed,” mlive.com, February 15, 2016.
Concealed Handgun Permit Holder: Jaquan Jamal White UNINTENTIONAL
Date: January 11, 2016
People Killed: 1
Circumstances: On January 11, 2016, concealed handgun permit holder Jaquan Jamal White, 25, was shot and killed with his own AK-47 pistol. According to police, White was in the bedroom of a home with a 31-year-old woman and her three children ages four, six, and eight. At least two of the children were in the bedroom when the gun fired. Investigators said that White’s death was caused by a gunshot wound to the head. They also stated that evidence pointed towards negligence and that White’s death may have resulted from “roughhousing” by the children. Investigators also found what they believed to be marijuana and cocaine both on White’s body and inside the house. An investigation into the incident was opened by Children’s Protective Services and the children were removed from their mother’s care.
Source: “UPDATE: Autopsy complete on Suttons Bay shooting victim,” record-eagle.com, January 13, 2016.
Concealed Handgun Permit Holder: Timothy Nelson Obeshaw SUICIDE
Date: December 3, 2015
People Killed: 2 (including shooter)
Circumstances: On December 3, 2015, concealed handgun permit holder Timothy Nelson Obeshaw shot and killed Emma Nowling, seven, with a 9mm pistol following Nowling’s soccer practice before turning the gun on himself. Nowling’s mother, Sharon Watson, was also shot but was in stable condition. Obeshaw was a family friend who, according to police, was recently experiencing paranoia. According to the Taylor police chief, “He thought someone was out to get him. Unfortunately, it appears as a result of his [instability] we now have a little girl who simply just wanted to go yesterday to play soccer, and never went home.” Obeshaw had no criminal history and registered the gun under his own name in September 2015.
Source: “7-Year-Old Girl Killed at Soccer Practice After ‘Paranoid’ Man With Concealed Carry License Opens Fire,” alternet.org, December 5, 2015.
Concealed Handgun Permit Holder: Name Not Provided SUICIDE
Date: Between October 1, 2015 and September 1, 2016
People Killed: 84
Circumstances: Between October 1, 2015 and September 30, 2016, Michigan State Police report that 84 Michigan concealed handgun permit holders took their own lives. In their annual report, the Michigan State Police do not release the victim’s name, the exact date of the suicide, nor the type of weapon used in the suicide.
Source: Concealed Pistol License Annual Report, October 1, 2015 – September 30, 2016, Michigan State Police.
Concealed Handgun Permit Holder: Name Not Provided CONVICTED
Date: Between October 1, 2015 and September 1, 2016
People Killed: 4
Circumstances: Between October 1, 2015 and September 30, 2016, Michigan State Police report that three Michigan concealed handgun permit holders were convicted of Moving Violation Causing Death, and one Michigan concealed handgun permit holder was convicted of Involuntary Manslaughter. In their annual report, the Michigan State Police do not release the offender’s name, the exact date of the event, nor the type of weapon used in the homicide.
Source: Concealed Pistol License Annual Report, October 1, 2015 – September 30, 2016, Michigan State Police.
Concealed Handgun Permit Holder: Name Not Provided SUICIDE
Date: Between October 1, 2014 and September 1, 2015
People Killed: 17
Circumstances: Between October 1, 2014 and September 30, 2015, Michigan State Police report that 17 Michigan concealed handgun permit holders took their own lives. In their annual report, the Michigan State Police do not release the victim’s name, the exact date of the suicide, nor the type of weapon used in the suicide.
Source: Concealed Pistol License Annual Report, October 1, 2014 – September 30, 2015, Michigan State Police.
Concealed Handgun Permit Holder: Name Not Provided CONVICTED
Date: Between October 1, 2014 and September 1, 2015
People Killed: 5
Circumstances: Between October 1, 2014 and September 30, 2015, Michigan State Police report that three Michigan concealed handgun permit holders were convicted of moving violation causing death, one Michigan concealed handgun permit holder was convicted of operating – while intoxicated causing death, and one Michigan concealed handgun permit holder was convicted of homicide – manslaughter. In their annual report, the Michigan State Police do not release the victim’s name, the exact date of the suicide, nor the type of weapon used in the suicide.
Source: Concealed Pistol License Annual Report, October 1, 2014 – September 30, 2015, Michigan State Police.
Concealed Handgun Permit Holder: Martin Edward Zale CONVICTED
Date: September 2, 2014
People Killed: 1
Circumstances: Concealed handgun permit holder Martin Edward Zale, 69, allegedly shot and killed Derek Flemming, 43, on September 2, 2014 near Howell, Michigan. According to Flemming’s attorney, Flemming and his wife were driving on their way to pick up their kids from the first day of school, when they saw Zale “screaming down a side street” in a Dodge pickup. Zale cut them off and moved in front of them, then cut to the left and slammed on his brakes when Flemming tried to maneuver away. When both of them were at a traffic light, Flemming got out of his vehicle and approached the pickup. According to witnesses, Zale rolled his window down and shot Flemming in the face. Zale has been charged with murder. His family is claiming he acted in self-defense, citing the principle of “stand your ground.”
UPDATE: On May 14, 2015, Martin Edward Zale was found guilty of second degree murder in the death of Derek Flemming. Zale was sentenced to 25 to 50 years for the murder charge and 32 months to four years for discharging a firearm from a vehicle. He was also sentenced to serve a two-year sentence for related felony firearms convictions, running consecutively to the murder charge for a minimum of 27 years. Zale was also ordered to pay $4,160 in restitution for funeral services.
Source: “Road-rage shooter gets 27-50 years in prison,” Livingston Daily, June 13, 2015; “Jury: Zale guilty of second-degree murder,” Livingston Daily, May 14, 2015; “‘Stand your ground’ defense raised in road rage case,” Detroit Free-Press, October 7, 2014; “Road rage shooter charged with murder,” Livingston Daily, September 4, 2014.
Concealed Handgun Permit Holder: Name Not Provided SUICIDE
Date: Between July 1, 2013 and June 30, 2014
People Killed: 70
Circumstances: Between July 1, 2013 and June 30, 2014, Michigan State Police report that 70 Michigan concealed handgun permit holders took their own lives. In their annual report, the Michigan State Police do not release the victim’s name, the exact date of the suicide, nor the type of weapon used in the suicide.
Source: Concealed Pistol License Annual Report, July 1, 2013 – June 30, 2014, Michigan State Police.
Concealed Handgun Permit Holder: Name Not Provided CONVICTED
Date: Between July 1, 2013 and June 30, 2014
People Killed: 2
Circumstances: Between July 1, 2013 and June 30, 2014, Michigan State Police report that one Michigan concealed handgun permit holder was convicted of first degree murder, and one Michigan concealed handgun permit holder was convicted of felony murder. In their annual report, the Michigan State Police do not release the offender’s name, the exact date of the event, nor the type of weapon used in the homicide.
Source: Concealed Pistol License Annual Report, July 1, 2013 – June 30, 2014, Michigan State Police.
Concealed Handgun Permit Holder: Name Not Provided CONVICTED
Date: Between July 1, 2013 and June 30, 2014
People Killed: 6
Circumstances: Between July 1, 2013 and June 30, 2014, Michigan State Police report that five Michigan concealed handgun permit holders were convicted of moving violation
causing death, and one Michigan concealed handgun permit holder was convicted of operating – while intoxicated causing death. In their annual report, the Michigan State Police do not release the offender’s name, the exact date of the event, nor the type of weapon used in the homicide.
Source: Concealed Pistol License Annual Report, July 1, 2013 – June 30, 2014, Michigan State Police.
Concealed Handgun Permit Holder: Noland Brown CONVICTED
Date: June 4, 2014
People Killed: 1
Circumstances: On June 4, 2014, concealed handgun permit holder Noland Brown, 49, shot and killed his next-door neighbor Deryl Bohannan, 57, with a single-shot handgun, following a dispute over money. Brown claimed that Bohannan came to his house to confront him and he acted in self-defense, but the prosecutor stated that Brown lied to police and shot Bohannan because he owed him money. Bohannan was shot in the leg outside Brown’s home and bled to death. The assistant prosecutor in the case argued, “Any number of times he could’ve gone back into the house, called police or walked away.” In March 2015, Brown was convicted of manslaughter and faces up to 15 years in prison.
Source: “Eastpointe man convicted of manslaughter in shooting of neighbor,” The Macomb Daily, March 20, 2015.
Concealed Handgun Permit Holders: James Pullam and Robert Taylor SHOT AND KILLED DURING INCIDENT
Date: September 18, 2013
People Killed: 2
Circumstances: On September 18, 2013, concealed handgun permit holders James Pullam, 43, and Robert Taylor, 56, shot and killed each other following a road rage incident. According to police, the dispute began when one car was tailgating the other. Both men pulled into the parking lot of a local car wash and exited their vehicles. According to witnesses, the tailgating driver fired first, followed by the other driver. Both men were transported to a local hospital where they were pronounced dead. Both men were licensed to carry concealed weapons and fired handguns in the incident.
Source: “2 Concealed Carry Holders Kill Each Other In Road Rage Incident,” The Huffington Post, September 19, 2013.
Concealed Handgun Permit Holder: Joshua M. Greenhill UNINTENTIONAL
Date: August 18, 2013
People Killed: 1
Circumstances: On August 18, 2013, three-year-old Damon Holbrook found a loaded .40 handgun in concealed handgun permit holder Joshua M. Greenhill’s house and unintentionally shot himself in the head. Two families and Joshua Greenhill lived in the house where the shooting took place. According to police, on the day of the shooting, Greenhill came home from work and placed the loaded handgun in an unlocked case in his closet. While the adults of the house were talking in another room, Damon Holbrook found the gun in the closet and pulled the trigger. In October 2013, Greenhill was sentenced to serve a year in jail after pleading no contest to a charge of careless discharge of a firearm causing injury or death. In addition to the year in jail, Greenhill will also have to surrender his firearm and his concealed weapons permit was revoked. He was also ordered to pay over $3,000 in fines and costs and will be on probation for two years.
Source: “Dundee man gets year in jail for child’s accidental gun death,” monroenews.com, October 31, 2013.
Concealed Handgun Permit Holder: Name Not Provided CONVICTED
Date: Between July 1, 2012 and June 30, 2013
People Killed: 3
Circumstances: Between July 1, 2012 and June 30, 2013, Michigan State Police report that one Michigan concealed handgun permit holder was convicted of second degree murder, and two Michigan concealed handgun permit holders were convicted of operating a motor vehicle while intoxicated causing death. In their annual report, the Michigan State Police do not release the offender’s name, the exact date of the event, nor the type of weapon used in the homicide.
Source: Concealed Pistol Licensing Annual Report, July 1, 2012 to June 30, 2013, Michigan State Police.
Concealed Handgun Permit Holder: Name Not Provided SUICIDE
Date: Between July 1, 2012 and June 30, 2013
People Killed: 28
Circumstances: Between July 1, 2012 and June 30, 2013, Michigan State Police report that 28 Michigan concealed handgun permit holders took their own lives. In their annual report, the Michigan State Police do not release the victim’s name, the exact date of the suicide, nor the type of weapon used in the suicide.
Source: Concealed Pistol Licensing Annual Report, July 1, 2012 to June 30, 2013, Michigan State Police.
Concealed Handgun Permit Holder: Ferdarius Shine CONVICTED
Date: February 15, 2013
People Killed: 3
Circumstances: On February 15, 2013, concealed handgun permit holder Ferdarius Shine, 28, allegedly shot and killed his 68-year-old grandmother Geraldine Bates, and his aunt, Santangela Williams, 49. His seven-year-old daughter was also wounded in the shooting. According to police, Shine was at his grandmother’s house when he began acting erratically, “talking about Satan, God, and the Devil,” before opening fire on his grandmother, aunt, and daughter. Bates and Williams died at the house, while his daughter was rushed to the hospital in critical condition. Shine’s mother told police that he is “possessed,” and according to police sources, after the shooting he left the house screaming, “The Devil made me do it.” Early on the morning of February 16, 2013, Shine checked himself into a local hospital for psychiatric evaluation. On February 21, 2013, Shine was charged with two counts of first degree murder, three counts of assault with intent to murder, and one count of felony firearm.
UPDATE: On March 22, 2013, Shine’s seven-year-old daughter Amera Jones died from complications resulting from her gunshot wounds.
UPDATE: In April 2014, Shine was found guilty of first-degree murder in the deaths of Geraldine Bates, Santangela Williams, and Amera Jones. He faces a mandatory penalty of life in prison without the possibility of parole.
Source: “Man guilty of mudering daughter, grandma, aunt,” myfoxdetroit.com, April 8, 2014; “Amera Jones, seven-year-old gunshot victim once expected to live, dies,” The Detroit News, March 28, 2013; “Man charged with 2 counts of murder in deaths of aunt, grandmother in Detroit,” Detroit Free Press, February 21, 2013; “Suspect in triple Detroit shooting turns himself in, sought psychiatric evaluation,” clickondetroit.com, February 15, 2013.
Concealed Handgun Permit Holder: James Robert Curry SUICIDE
Date: August 27, 2012
People Killed: 2
Circumstances: On August 27, 2012, concealed handgun permit holder James Robert Curry, 61, shot his wife, Peggy Curry, in the head, killing her. Curry then attempted to kill himself by firing two shots below his chin. The couple were later found in bed by authorities. James Robert Curry, critically injured, died four days later. According to his daughter, James Robert Curry was a Vietnam veteran who had struggled with post-traumatic stress disorder and had been off his medication. News reports stated that he was a hunter with many guns in his home. Curry and his wife married in 2008.
Source: “Man in apparent murder-suicide attempt dies; He and his wife were found at home just outside of Stockbridge,” Jackson Citizen Patriot, September 1, 2012.
Concealed Handgun Permit Holder: Blake Hullihen CONVICTED
Date: December 7, 2011
People Killed: 2
Circumstances: On December 7, 2011, concealed handgun permit holder Blake Hullihen, 27, shot and killed Gabrielle Woodworth and Donald Feneis in a child custody dispute with Woodworth over their six-year-old daughter. The shootings occurred outside Chuck’s Corners Citgo station, a location that Hullihen and Woodworth used as a custody exchange point for their daughter. Hullihen testified in court that he was “shocked and devastated” when a court order awarded Woodworth primary custody of their daughter. On the day of the shooting, Hullihen arrived at the drop-off point without their daughter and an argument ensued. Hullihen claimed that Feneis pulled something from his pocket which Hullihen thought was a weapon. The object was later identified to be a cell phone. Hullihen began firing, shooting Woodworth and Feneis 17 times, unloading two magazines from his 45 caliber pistol before fleeing the scene. Hullihen testified that he regularly carried his pistol and wore a bullet-proof vest when exchanging custody of his daughter. Hullihen’s attorney claimed the shootings were an unfortunate event that took place because Hullihen believed his life was in danger. The state’s prosecutor called the incident a “cold-blooded murder….a planned execution of two people.” On January 28, 2013, Hullihen was found guilty of two counts of second degree murder and two counts of felony firearm charges.
Source: “Hullihen convicted of second degree murder,” The Clare County Review, February 1, 2013.
Concealed Handgun Permit Holder: Name Not Provided SUICIDE
Date: Between July 1, 2011 and June 30, 2012
People Killed: 56
Circumstances: Between July 1, 2011 and June 30, 2012, Michigan State Police report that 56 Michigan concealed handgun permit holders took their own lives. In their annual report, the Michigan State Police do not release the victim’s name, the exact date of the suicide, nor the type of weapon used in the suicide.
Source: Concealed Pistol Licensing Annual Report, July 1, 2011 – June 30, 2012, Michigan State Police.
Concealed Handgun Permit Holder: Name Not Provided CONVICTED
Date: Between July 1, 2011 and June 30, 2012
People Killed: 1
Circumstances: Between July 1, 2011 and June 30, 2012, Michigan State Police report that one Michigan concealed handgun permit holder was convicted of operating a motor vehicle while intoxicated causing death. In their annual report, the Michigan State Police do not release the offender’s name, the exact date of the event, nor the type of weapon used in the homicide.
Source: Concealed Pistol Licensing Annual Report, July 1, 2011 to June 30, 2012, Michigan State Police.
Concealed Handgun Permit Holder: Name Not Provided CONVICTED
Date: Between July 1, 2011 and June 30, 2012
People Killed: 3
Circumstances: Between July 1, 2011 and June 30, 2012, Michigan State Police report that three Michigan concealed handgun permit holders were convicted of criminal homicide. In their annual report, the Michigan State Police do not release the offender’s name, the exact date of the event, nor the type of weapon used in the homicide.
Source: Concealed Pistol Licensing Annual Report, July 1, 2011 to June 30, 2012, Michigan State Police.
Concealed Handgun Permit Holder: Name Not Provided CONVICTED
Date: Between July 1, 2010 and June 30, 2011
People Killed: 2
Circumstances: Between July 1, 2010 and June 30, 2011, Michigan State Police report that two Michigan concealed handgun permit holders were convicted of operating a motor vehicle while intoxicated causing death. In their annual report, the Michigan State Police do not release the offender’s name, the exact date of the event, nor the type of weapon used in the homicide.
Source: Concealed Pistol Licensing Annual Report, July 1, 2010 to June 30, 2011, Michigan State Police.
Concealed Handgun Permit Holder: Name Not Provided SUICIDE
Date: Between July 1, 2010 and June 30, 2011
People Killed: 29
Circumstances: Between July 1, 2010 and June 30, 2011, Michigan State Police report that 29 Michigan concealed handgun permit holders took their own lives. In their annual report, the Michigan State Police do not release the victim’s name, the exact date of the suicide, nor the type of weapon used in the suicide.
Source: Concealed Pistol Licensure Annual Report, July 1, 2010 to June 30, 2011, Michigan State Police.
Concealed Handgun Permit Holder: Name Not Provided CONVICTED
Date: Between July 1, 2010 and June 30, 2011
Law Enforcement Officers Killed: 1
Circumstances: Between July 1, 2010 and June 30, 2011, one Michigan concealed handgun permit holder had criminal homicide charges pending for the killing of a law enforcement officer. In their annual report, the Michigan State Police do not release the alleged offender’s name, the exact date of the event, nor the type of weapon allegedly used in the homicide. The permit holder was convicted of murder.
Source: Concealed Pistol Licensure Annual Report, July 1, 2010 to June 30, 2011, Michigan State Police; Law Enforcement Officers Killed & Assaulted, U.S. Department of Justice, Federal Bureau of Investigation, 2010 and 2011; “Man sentenced in crash that killed Detroit officer,” themorningsun.com, February 13, 2012; “DETROIT: Guilty verdict in murder of Taylor police officer,” thenewsherald.com, November 11, 2011.
Concealed Handgun Permit Holder: Name Not Provided CONVICTED
Date: Between July 1, 2010 and June 30, 2011
People Killed: 4
Circumstances: Between July 1, 2010 and June 30, 2011, Michigan State Police report that four Michigan concealed handgun permit holders were convicted of criminal homicide. In their annual report, the Michigan State Police do not release the offender’s name, the exact date of the event, nor the type of weapon used in the homicide.
Source: Concealed Pistol Licensure Annual Report, July 1, 2010 to June 30, 2011, Michigan State Police.
Concealed Handgun Permit Holder: Justin Luckhardt SUICIDE
Date: July 13, 2010
People Killed: 2 (including shooter)
Circumstances: On July 13, 2010, concealed handgun permit holder Justin Luckhardt, 32, shot and killed Kim Luchie, 25, at the Cabin bar in what news reports described as a “jealous, race-fueled rage” before taking his own life. Luckhardt was separated from his wife and was convinced she had an African-American boyfriend. Luckhardt, who had been golfing that day with friends, had already split a 12-pack of beer and four shots when he first visited the Cabin that night for more beer—the first of three visits. Once there, he saw Luchie, an African-American, drinking with Luckhardt’s sister-in-law. Luckhardt’s rage grew between his repeated visits to the bar. According to one of his golfing partners, “Justin was mad and was talking that right now he could kill them. And to prove that, he opened up his trunk and pulled a rifle bag out.” In the bag was an assault rifle. Luckhardt also kept a bulletproof vest in the trunk. Police believe Luckhardt kept the rifle in the trunk because of an anti-gun sentiment in his family. On his third visit to the Cabin, Luckhardt walked by four unarmed police officers who were celebrating a promotion and shot and killed Luchie with a .357 Glock pistol with a 10-round magazine. Luchie, who had a long-time girlfriend, was not romantically involved with Luckhardt’s wife or his in-laws. He died from multiple shots to his neck, chest, and abdomen. Luckhardt then left the bar in his Nissan automobile. The officers called in the incident, and a police chase ensued. Luckhardt eventually crashed his car and committed suicide. He left behind a suicide note he had drafted between visits to the bar.
Source: “Jealousy, rage and race: Behind the Cabin tragedy,” Morning Sun, August 10, 2010.
Concealed Handgun Permit Holder: Hayes Bacall CONVICTED
Date: July 2, 2010
People Killed: 1
Circumstances: On July 2, 2010, concealed handgun permit holder Hayes Bacall, 51, shot and killed has nephew Saif Jameel, 33, in a confrontation over a $400,000 debt. Bacall shot Jameel 10 times in the office of Jameel’s BP gas station. The confrontation stemmed from money Jameel had borrowed from Bacall for a construction project that included a Starbucks. Bacall claimed Jameel had stopped making payments on the loan. Bacall was convicted of first degree murder and was scheduled to be sentenced to life in prison without parole.
Source: “Jury convicts Detroit businessman for killing nephew over debt,” Detroit Free Press, August 18, 2011; “Defendant re-enacts shooting scene,” Detroit Free Press, August 12, 2011.
Concealed Handgun Permit Holder: Name Not Provided SUICIDE
Date: Between July 1, 2009 and June 30, 2010
People Killed: 43
Circumstances: Between July 1, 2009 and June 30, 2010, Michigan State Police report that 43 Michigan concealed handgun permit holders took their own lives. In their annual report, the Michigan State Police do not release the victim’s name, the exact date of the suicide, nor the type of weapon used in the suicide.
Source: “Concealed Pistol Licensure Annual Report, July 1, 2009–June 30, 2010,” Michigan State Police.
Concealed Handgun Permit Holder: Name Not Provided CONVICTED
Date: Between July 1, 2009 and June 30, 2010
People Killed: 3
Circumstances: Between July 1, 2009 and June 30, 2010, Michigan State Police report that three Michigan concealed handgun permit holders were convicted of criminal homicide. In their annual report, the Michigan State Police do not release the offender’s name, the exact date of the event, nor the type of weapon used in the homicide.
Source: “Concealed Pistol Licensure Annual Report, July 1, 2009–June 30, 2010,” Michigan State Police.
Concealed Handgun Permit Holder: Edward Bell CONVICTED
Date: May 12, 2010
People Killed: 1
Circumstances: On May 12, 2010, Geraldine Jackson, a 69-year-old Detroit grandmother, was unintentionally shot and killed by a stray bullet fired by concealed handgun permit holder Edward Bell, 65. The bullet—which “slammed through” the wall of her home—struck her in the chest, killing her as she was preparing dinner for her granddaughter and a close friend. According to police, Bell was working on a house in the neighborhood when he was robbed with a fake gun by 19-year-old Antwan Hall and Bell’s Chevrolet Suburban sport utility vehicle was stolen. As the alleged thief drove away, Bell fired at him with a .45 handgun, resulting in the SUV crashing into a tree. Police believe that it was one of these bullets that ended Jackson’s life. Hall was charged with felony murder. No charges have yet been filed against Bell.
UPDATE: In July 2010, Bell pleaded guilty to a felony charge of firing at a building and agreed to one year of probation, with the first four months in jail. A manslaughter charge was dismissed in exchange for testimony and cooperation in prosecuting the carjacking suspect, Antwan Hall. Calling the deal unjust, Geraldine Jackson’s daughter Coretta Stoudemire, stated, “I know how everybody’s saying, ‘Poor Mr. Bell this and poor Mr. Bell that.’ What about my mother? What about our family?”
Source: “Edward Bell to get probation deal in shooting death of grandmother—Slain grandmother’s family fumes over deal,” Detroit Free Press, July 9, 2010; “Grandmother Killed by Stray Bullet Laid to Rest,” www.myfoxdetroit.com, May 19, 2010; “Victim of Stray Bullet Remembered,” www.wxyz.com, May 14, 2010; “Charges Likely in Accidental Shooting of Geraldine Jackson,” www.myfoxdetroit.com, May 13, 2010; “Stray bullet kills Detroit woman in her home,” Detroit News, May 13, 2010; “Woman, 69, Killed by Stray Bullet,” www.clickondetroit.com, May 12, 2010.
Concealed Handgun Permit Holder: Tigh Croff CONVICTED
Date: December 27, 2009
People Killed: 1
Circumstances: On December 27, 2009, Tigh Croff allegedly shot and killed Herbert Silas after Silas and another man were reportedly attempting to burglarize his home. While one of the pair escaped, Croff confronted Silas—who was unarmed—in his backyard. According to a news report, Silas asked Croff, “What are you going to do? Shoot me?” To which Croff replied, “Absolutely,” before firing a bullet into Silas’ chest. Croff, who had a permit to carry a handgun, was charged with second degree murder.
Update: Croff was convicted of manslaughter on January 18, 2011. He was sentenced to a mandatory two years in prison for using a firearm in the commission of a felony and three years probation for the manslaughter charge.
Source: “Conviction of Tigh Croff, Detroit homeowner who killed burglar, proof that justice can frustrate,” Mlive.com, January 19, 2011; “Detroit man gets minimum sentence in vigilante shooting,” The Detroit News, February 19, 2011; “Family defends Detroit homeowner charged after shooting unarmed burglary suspect,” MLive.com, January 4, 2010.
Concealed Handgun Permit Holder: Jamar Pinkney, Sr. CONVICTED
Date: November 16, 2009
People Killed: 1
Circumstances: On November 16, 2009, Jamar Pinkney, Sr. allegedly shot and killed his 15-year-old son after the teen confessed to inappropriate sexual contact with a three-year-old. Witnesses said that Pinkney, Sr. seemed calm at a family meeting to discuss the incident but then suddenly erupted in a rage, punching, kicking, and pistol whipping the teen before stripping off the boy’s clothes, marching him to a nearby field, and shooting him fatally once in the head. Pinkney is charged with first-degree premeditated murder, three counts of felonious assault, and one count of felony firearm.
UPDATE: In April 2010, Pinkney was found guilty of second-degree murder, and ordered to serve 37 to 82 years in prison. He was also convicted of three counts of assault for threatening other family members with the handgun. Sentences of two to four years are to be served concurrently with the sentence for second-degree murder and use of a firearm during the commission of a felony crime. Pinkney was also ordered to pay $6,600 for his son’s funeral expenses. At his sentencing, Pinkney stated, “I am truly sorry for what I did. I’m sad about losing my son…I am horrified by what I did.”
Source: “Judge slams door on killer dad,” The Detroit News, April 15, 2010; “Aunt says slain teen pleaded for life,” The Detroit News, December 1, 2009.
Concealed Handgun Permit Holder: Harlan Drake CONVICTED
Date: September 11, 2009
People Killed: 2
Circumstances: On September 11, 2009, Harlan Drake, 33, allegedly opened fire from a passing vehicle, killing anti-abortion activist James Pouillon, 63. The shooting occurred at 7:20 AM outside Owosso High School, a site of frequent anti-abortion protests by Pouillon. Multiple witnesses, including high school students, gave police the license plate number of Drake’s vehicle. Arrested approximately an hour after the shooting, Drake reportedly told authorities that he had been involved in an earlier shooting. Police were soon made aware of the murder of Michael Fuoss, owner of Fuoss Gravel. Fuoss was found dead in his office with multiple gunshot wounds. A 22 caliber gun and 45 caliber gun were sought in the killings. Pouillon and Fuoss were two of the three people police say Drake wanted to kill. Drake, who had a concealed handgun permit, was charged with two counts of murder, possession of a firearm during the commission of a felony, and possessing a weapon with unlawful intent. Drake will be using an insanity defense at his trial.
UPDATE: On Thursday, April 22, 2010, Harlan Drake was found guilty of first-degree premeditated murder in the shooting deaths of James Pouillon and Michael Fuoss. Jurors rejected Drake’s claim that he was legally insane at the time of the shootings. Drake was sentenced to life in prison for the killings.
Source: “Double murderer Harlan Drake gets mandatory life sentence for 2009 killings,” Argus-Press, April 22, 2010; “Insanity defense to be used in protester slaying,” Associated Press, January 15, 2010; “UPDATE: Owosso man charged in fatal shootings,” BattleCreek Enquirer.com, September 11, 2009; “UPDATE: Victims identified in Owosso shootings,” ConnectMidMichigan.com, September 11, 2009.
Concealed Handgun Permit Holder: Kevin Hoover CONVICTED
Date: July 21, 2009
People Killed: 1
Circumstances: On July 21, 2009, Kevin Hoover, 23, allegedly shot his father-in-law, Andre Settler, 43, during an argument that occurred during Hoover’s backyard birthday party. According to his wife Cassaundra, Hoover was carrying the 45 caliber handgun during the party: “He had the handgun on his side since he woke up that morning…on his right hip in a holster.” At approximately 9:50 PM Hoover and Settler, both of whom had been drinking, got into an argument, with Settler striking Hoover. According to Hoover’s wife, “It just happened out of nowhere….He got struck a couple of times and he fell back and I heard gunshots.” Hoover fled after the shooting and visited his mother, giving her the handgun. According to his mother, Hoover “was holding his face in his hands and crying and saying, ‘I can’t believe this happened.’” Hoover then traveled to the home of his aunt, Vickie Haymer, who helped him surrender to police. “I knew something wasn’t right,” said Haymer, who described Hoover as intoxicated and not himself. Hoover, who had a concealed handgun permit, was charged with open murder and use of a firearm in the commission of a felony.
UPDATE: On April 16, 2010, Kevin Hoover was sentenced to 25 to 50 years in prison plus two years for use of a firearm in the commission of a felony for his second-degree murder conviction in the death of Andre Settler. “If only people would learn to avoid the volatile mix of drugs, alcohol and guns we wouldn’t be here today,” Judge James Kingsley stated.
Source: “Man sentenced for shooting death,” BattleCreekEnquirer.com, April 16, 2010; “Woman testifies in father’s shooting,” BattleCreekEnquirer.com, August 19, 2009.
Concealed Handgun Permit Holder: Name Not Provided SUICIDE
Date: Between July 1, 2008 and June 30, 2009
People Killed: 28
Circumstances: Between July 1, 2008 and June 30, 2009, Michigan State Police report that 28 Michigan concealed handgun permit holders took their own lives. In their annual report, the Michigan State Police do not release the victim’s name, the exact date of the suicide, nor the type of weapon used in the suicide.
Source: “Concealed Pistol Licensing Annual Report, Statewide Totals, General Information, July 1, 2008–June 30, 2009,” Michigan State Police.
Concealed Handgun Permit Holder: Arlando Davis SHOT AND KILLED DURING INCIDENT
Date: May 24, 2009
People Killed: 1
Circumstances: On May 24, 2009, Arlando Davis shot and killed Jarmel Hodges following a dispute about a loud party. Police said that it appeared the dispute started in the street between the two men over a loud party which included someone firing shots. Davis and Hodges both fired shots at each other and each died from his wounds. Davis had a concealed handgun permit.
Source: “2 die in Sunday shooting,” Battle Creek Enquirer, May 25, 2009.
Concealed Handgun Permit Holder: Salam Shaker Zora CONVICTED
Date: January 23, 2009
People Killed: 1
Circumstances: On January 23, 2009, Salam Shaker Zora, 41, of Saginaw, shot and killed his brother-in-law Najem Matti, 37. Zora had gone to Matti’s home to confront him about an alleged theft of $250,000 that had been hidden in a pickle bucket in a shed at one of Zora’s homes. The “family meeting” was to discuss a proposal by Zora, who was accompanied by his two brothers, to have Matti swear on a Bible in a Catholic church that he hadn’t stolen the money. During trial, the defense said that the shooting was in self-defense, claiming that during the confrontation Matti suddenly pointed to his forehead and stated, “Shoot me right here. I don’t want this life.” The defense claimed that he then ran into the kitchen and returned with a barbecue fork, uttering a Chaldean (an ancient region of Mesopotamia) war cry and advanced toward Zora. Assistant Prosecutor Steve Kaplan noted, however, that Zora lied and omitted information during interviews with police. He also argued that the pattern of gunshot wounds and the position of the bullets recovered at the scene suggested that Zora had continued to shoot Matti after he’d already fallen to the ground. Zora’s only witness, his brother Maher Zora, said his brother had a concealed handgun permit and often carried a gun, but was surprised when gunfire broke out. Salam Shaker Zora was found guilty of second-degree murder.
Source: “Jury finds second-degree murder in Sterling man’s death,” candgnews, date on printout listed as September 23, 2009; “Suspect in brother-in-law’s murder appears in court,” candgnews.com, date on printout listed as April 22, 2009.
Concealed Handgun Permit Holder: Troy Brake CONVICTED
Date: September 29, 2008
People Killed: 4
Circumstances: On September 29, 2008, Troy Brake, 31, shot to death 52-year-old Sharmaine Zimmer, her sons, Tyler (age 17) and Jeremy (age 20), and beat to death Jeremy’s girlfriend, university student Katherine Brown (age 18). Brake once lived next door to the Zimmers and had lived with them for a time while growing up. At trial, the jury was told that Brake shot the Zimmers to death in order to have sex with Brown, and that he then doused the lower half of Brown’s body with gasoline. The Zimmers’ house was set on fire and destroyed. A month after the attack, police arrested Brake for beating up a prostitute and found that a 40 caliber Glock pistol owned by Brake was linked to the earlier murders. Brake, who had a concealed handgun permit, was convicted of first degree murder in the deaths of the Zimmer family and Katherine Brown. He was also convicted of assault and rape of the prostitute he had attacked.
Source: “Victims’ families applaud investigators, prosecutor after Troy Brake is found guilty of four Wright Township murders,” The Grand Rapids Press, May 28, 2009; “Jurors will have Troy Brake’s testimony to consider Thursday,” The Grand Rapids Press, March 25, 2009.
Concealed Handgun Permit Holder: Name Not Provided SUICIDE
Date: Between July 1, 2007 and June 30, 2008
People Killed: 29
Circumstances: Between July 1, 2007 and June 30, 2008, Michigan State Police report that 29 Michigan concealed handgun permit holders took their own lives. In their annual report, the Michigan State Police do not release the victim’s name, the exact date of the suicide, nor the type of weapon used in the suicide.
Source: “Concealed Pistol Licensing Annual Report, Statewide Totals, General Information, July 1, 2007–June 30, 2008,” Michigan State Police.
Concealed Handgun Permit Holder: Name Not Provided CONVICTED
Date: Between July 1, 2007 and June 30, 2008
People Killed: 1
Circumstances: Between July 1, 2007 and June 30, 2008, Michigan State Police report that one Michigan concealed handgun permit holder was convicted of negligent homicide. In their annual report, the Michigan State Police do not release the offender’s name, the exact date of the event, nor the type of weapon used in the homicide.
Source: “Concealed Pistol Licensing Annual Report, Statewide Totals, General Information, July 1, 2007–June 30, 2008,” Michigan State Police.