Second-Degree Murder Charge Follows Investigation into Fatal Collision
Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel announced charges against Detective Sergeant Brian Keely on Tuesday in connection with the April 17 death of Samuel Sterling. The charges stem from a police chase that ended in a collision between Keely’s unmarked vehicle and Sterling, a 25-year-old Black man.
Community Reeling After Another Death
Sterling’s death has reignited tensions in a community still grappling with the 2022 death of Patrick Lyoya, another Black man fatally shot by a Grand Rapids police officer during a traffic stop. The officer, Christopher Schurr, pleaded not guilty to second-degree murder charges in that case.
Details of the Incident
Authorities reported that Sterling fled on foot after officers approached him at a Kentwood gas station on warrants. Body camera footage released in May shows a pursuit involving multiple police agencies. The video captures officers ordering Sterling to stop, followed by the collision with the unmarked car driven by Keely. Sterling sustained fatal injuries and died at the hospital.
Charges and Investigation
Attorney General Nessel has filed a second-degree murder charge against Keely, with involuntary manslaughter as an alternative. An arraignment date is pending.
While police confirm Sterling had outstanding warrants, the specific charges have not been disclosed. Michigan Department of Correction records indicate a probation violation in 2022 for prior offenses involving concealed weapons, firearm possession by a felon, and theft.
The investigation into this incident is ongoing.
