A fatal shooting that occurred at a popular tailgating site after the Detroit Lions game on Sunday has been ruled a case of self-defense, according to Michigan prosecutors.
Prosecutors in Michigan have concluded that the shooting that claimed the lives of two men at a popular tailgating site after the Detroit Lions game on Sunday was an act of self-defense.
The incident unfolded near Shed 6 in Eastern Market, where a "physical altercation" involving several men had broken out after the game.
Deadly Tailgating Shooting in Detroit Ruled Self-Defense
During the altercation, 25-year-old Jalen Welch allegedly displayed a pistol in a "threatening manner" while approaching an unidentified 40-year-old shooter.
The shooter, who possessed a concealed pistol license, responded by drawing his weapon and firing a single shot that struck Welch in the head. The bullet also fatally wounded 40-year-old Rayshawn Palmer, an innocent bystander who was attempting to de-escalate the situation.
Deadly Tailgating Shooting in Detroit Ruled Self-Defense
"Evidence indicates that Mr. Palmer was acting as a peacemaker and trying to discourage Mr. Welch and the other men from arguing," the prosecutor's office said in a statement.
Welch was also a concealed pistol license holder.
Deadly Tailgating Shooting in Detroit Ruled Self-Defense
"This single gunshot resulted in the death of two individuals. Mr. Palmer was an innocent bystander who was not involved in the fight," the prosecutor's office stated.
A thorough review of the case by prosecutors determined that the shooter acted in self-defense and that no crime could be charged and proven beyond a reasonable doubt.
"It is absolutely tragic that during all the fun and merrymaking at a Lions tailgate that two lives were lost," said Wayne County Prosecutor Kym Worthy. "The first was Mr. Welch who was the one who first pulled out a gun and was shot by the 40-year-old, a lawful CPL holder, who was defending himself. A single shot was fired."
"And then, perhaps the most heartbreaking of all is the fact that a completely and totally innocent bystander, Mr. Palmer was shot and killed with the same bullet that passed through the head of Mr. Welch. It could have been any one of us," Worthy added.
Palmer was pronounced dead at the scene, while Welch succumbed to his injuries at a local hospital the following day. The shooter was not involved in the physical altercation.
The incident serves as a stark reminder of the tragic consequences that can stem from the improper use of firearms. It highlights the need for responsible gun ownership and the importance of de-escalating conflicts without resorting to violence.
