Flint police chief calls fatal downtown shooting ‘isolated incident’
The investigation continues
FLINT, Mich. — Flint Police Chief Terence Green is calling a fatal shooting in downtown Flint an “isolated incident” after one man was killed, another was wounded and a suspect was taken into custody Saturday night.
Flint police said officers responded about 10:52 p.m. Aug. 8 after hearing gunfire near South Saginaw and First streets.
Officers found two adult men suffering from gunshot wounds. One man was pronounced dead at the scene. The second was taken to a local hospital, where police said he was listed in good condition.
A suspect was taken into custody at the scene without further incident. Police said no additional suspects are believed to be outstanding.
The investigation remains active.
In a statement Sunday, Green called the events “deeply troubling” and said they do not reflect the values of the city.
“I understand the anxiety and concern an incident of this nature causes,” Green said. “Please know that we share your concern in keeping our streets, public spaces, and neighborhoods secure.”
Green praised the sergeant in charge and officers involved in the initial response, saying their “professionalism, quick assessment, and decisive action” helped secure the scene and apprehend the suspect without further violence.
He also thanked the University of Michigan-Flint Department of Public Safety, Genesee County Sheriff’s Office Arrowhead Detail and Michigan State Police for assisting Flint police.
“The smooth coordination between these agencies proved vital in managing a chaotic scene efficiently and bringing this suspect into custody shortly after the incident occurred,” Green said.
The chief also urged people attending large gatherings to follow police instructions, particularly orders to disperse following an incident. Green said such directives are intended to protect the crowd, maintain order and allow officers to focus on keeping people safe.
Anyone with information about the shooting is asked to contact Michigan State Police Detective Trooper Andrew Ager at 810-237-6958. Anonymous tips can be submitted to Crime Stoppers at 1-800-422-JAIL (5245), through the P3 Tips mobile app or through Crime Stoppers of Flint & Genesee County.
The Flint Drop Fest released the following statement:
After our festival ended there was a violent incident that yet again sets us many steps backwards as a city and community.
Thank you to the first responders are an amazing job all day and reacted quickly to ensure that our cleanup volunteers were out of harms way.
It’s incredibly sad that our community is plague with this sort of violence, and my heart goes out to the family of those affected by senseless violence.