Detroit father killed by stray bullet, family pleads for tips

Shannon Mullen struck outside restaurant in November on city's east side

DETROIT – Family members of a 25-year-old Detroit father who was killed by a stray bullet last year are asking for help to close the case.

Shannon Mullen, also known as "S Dot" was in his cousin's car on Nov. 10, 2012 at a Coney island in the 11000 block of Morang Drive on the city's east side when he was hit.

The shots stemmed from an argument between Mullen's cousin and another person.

"It was the worst day of my life. Words can't express what I went through that day," said Mullen's mother, Edna Washington. "Shannon was my pride and joy. I just want to express to the community that if anybody knows anything about what happened to my son, Shannon, to come forward."

Washington, who said her background is as a paramedic, said she never thought the death she sometimes saw at her job would hit so close to home.  

"I had to tag individuals toes and I had to pull bullets out of young men, but never in a million years did I think that my son, who I love so dearly, would end up at a place where I call my employment."

Mullen's sister, Angel, said her brother was a protector and did everything he could to care for his family. He had left behind a 2-year-old son.

A $2,500 reward is being offered by Crime Stoppers of Michigan for information that leads to an arrest. If the tip that leads to an arrest is received by midnight Wednesday, there is an additional $1,000 reward for a total of $3,500.