Young Black Rapper Killed by Michigan Police in Parking Lot Pursuit
By Darius Spearman (africanelements)
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Tragic Incident Unfolds in Kentwood
On April 17th, a devastating incident transpired in Kentwood, Michigan. Consequently, it resulted in the death of 25-year-old Samuel Sterling, a young Black man and father. Additionally, Sterling was a local rapper. (WOOD TV) Law enforcement officers attempted to arrest Sterling at a gas station. He was wanted on multiple warrants. (Michigan State Police Newsroom, MLive) However, upon being approached, Sterling fled on foot. This led officers from the Michigan State Police (MSP), local police departments, Department of Corrections, and U.S. Marshals on a brief pursuit. (Michigan State Police Newsroom, MLive, WOOD TV)
“We’re never going to let Samuel Sterling be swept under the rug. We’re going to keep going until we get justice for Samuel Sterling.” (WZZM 13)
Deadly Encounter in Burger King Parking Lot
The chase ended tragically in the parking lot of a Burger King restaurant. There, Sterling was struck by an unmarked MSP vehicle driven by a trooper. (Michigan State Police Newsroom, MLive, WOOD TV) Consequently, Sterling was rushed to the hospital. Sadly, he succumbed to his injuries. (Michigan State Police Newsroom, MLive, WOOD TV) Witnesses and community members are now demanding answers. In addition, they seek to understand the circumstances that led to this fatal outcome. (Michigan State Police Newsroom, MLive, WOOD TV)
Investigation Launched, Trooper Suspended
In the aftermath, MSP Director Col. James Grady stated a “thorough and objective” investigation is underway. Investigators from a neighboring MSP district are conducting it. (Michigan State Police Newsroom, MLive) Moreover, the trooper who struck Sterling with the vehicle has been suspended. Similarly, this suspension will remain pending the investigation’s outcome. (Michigan State Police Newsroom, MLive)
Calls for Transparency and Justice
Civil rights attorney Ben Crump, retained by Sterling’s family, is calling for action. Specifically, he demands the public release of any footage from the incident. Additionally, Crump seeks a transparent probe into Sterling’s death. (WZZM 13, NewsOne)
“This represents another young African American male following an interaction with police.” (WZZM 13, NewsOne)
Crump also questioned whether the use of the vehicle against Sterling was necessary. (WZZM 13, NewsOne)
Community Rallies Around Sterling’s Family
Sterling’s loved ones and community activists held vigils, rallies, and gatherings. In short, their goal is to demand justice and transparency. (WOOD TV, WZZM 13, FOX 17) As a father and local rapper, his family is devastated. In particular, they seek answers about what led to this tragic loss of life. (WOOD TV)
Concerns Over Police Use of Force
The incident reignited concerns about police use of force, particularly against Black Americans. Consequently, it galvanized calls for reform from civil rights leaders like Crump. (WZZM 13)
As the investigation into Sterling’s death unfolds, a grieving community grapples with another life cut short. In addition, they seek accountability from the authorities involved. Samuel Sterling’s story became a rallying cry. It represents those demanding change and an end to the recurring loss of Black lives at the hands of law enforcement.
About the author
Darius Spearman is a professor of Black Studies at San Diego City College, where he has been pursuing his love of teaching since 2007. He is the author of several books, including Between The Color Lines: A History of African Americans on the California Frontier Through 1890. You can visit Darius online at africanelements.org.
