Detroit man accused of shooting at police, barricading himself in van charged on 22 felony counts

Lawrence Turvill accused of firing rifle at police officer

DETROIT – A 68-year-old Detroit man accused of firing a shot at police officers and barricading himself in a van was arraigned Friday on 22 felony counts.

You can watch the full arraignment above.

Police said Lawrence Turvill threatened a 36th District Court officer who went to Turvill's home March 21 near Wheelock Street and W. Lafayette Boulevard. The officer had a valid eviction notice, and when he tried to tow Turvill's van, Turvill threatened him from inside the van, charges say.

Detroit police officers were called to the scene and Turvill refused to leave the van, police said. After a short period of time, Turvill got out of the van and fired a rifle in the direction of one of the officers, they said.

The officer returned fire and shot Turvill, who got back into the van and refused to come out, police said.

Turvill stayed in the van for nearly nine hours before coming out and surrendering to police officers, police said.

He was taken to a nearby hospital for treatment of his non-fatal gunshot wound.

The judge said Friday that Turvill is charged with six counts of assault with a dangerous weapon, five counts of resisting and obstructing the police, and 11 felony firearms violations.

"But I never pointed my gun at anybody!" Turvill said during the video arraignment.

The judge set bond at $500,000.

"Where the (heck) am I supposed to get that kind of money?" Turvill said as the arraignment ended.

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Derick is the Lead Digital Editor for ClickOnDetroit and has been with Local 4 News since April 2013. Derick specializes in breaking news, crime and local sports.