The following are unedited remarks as prepared for delivery by Assistant Detroit Police Chief Ralph Godbee this morning about the police shooting of a 7-year-old girl on the city's east side. Detroit Police Chief Warren Evans is on vacation.
Remarks by Assistant Police Chief Ralph Godbee
As you all know, we have some very tragic news to report this morning involving a fatal police involved shooting of a seven year old girl.
Because of the extremely painful nature of this incident, we felt it was important to come forward as soon as possible to discuss what we know at this point and where we go from here.
I first want to express to the family of Aiyana Jones the profound sorrow that we feel within the Detroit Police Department and throughout this community. We know that no words can do anything to take away the pain you are feeling at this time.
This is any parent’s worst nightmare. It also is any police officer’s worst nightmare. And today, it is all to real.
Before I discuss the incident from last night, I need to set the stage somewhat so everyone can know why our officers were at this home in the first place.
I ALSO MUST STRESS THAT THIS INFORMATION IS PRELIMINARY. WE HAVE REACHED NO CONCLUSIONS OR MADE ANY FINAL DETERMINATIONS.
Shortly before 3:00 p.m. on Friday, May 14th, 17-year-old Jarean Blake, a student at Southeastern High School, was gunned down in particularly brutal fashion in front of a store - and in front of his girlfriend - on Mack Avenue near St. Jean. After being shot, he managed to stumble across Mack Avenue before he collapsed and died.
Our homicide investigators worked thoroughly and tirelessly since then to identify the suspected shooter in that case, who is a 34-year-old male. Based on intelligence gathered by our investigators, we obtained a search warrant for 4054 Lillibridge on the city’s east side as a location that the suspect was believed to be hiding out. This search warrant was vetted and approved by the Prosecutor and a magistrate. (see full remarks: [
link to www.freep.com] )
