Vigil honored life of Tracie Golden on her birthday at Detroit hospital where she worked, died

53-year-old was murdered in car jacking last month

DETROIT – Family, friends and coworkers gathered to honor the life of Tracie Golden at a vigil on Friday.

The vigil was held on Jan. 27, what would’ve been Tracie Golden’s 54th birthday.

Golden, 53, stopped at a liquor store at 10:47 p.m. Dec. 28 in the 19300 block of Grand River Avenue, near West Outer Drive, to buy juice. As she walked out of the store and toward her SUV, a man in dark clothing approached, pulled out a handgun, and shot Golden in the chest, according to authorities.

Bradley Doss Thurman, 19, of Detroit, stole Golden’s keys and other valuables before driving away in her gray 2018 Dodge Journey SUV, leaving her injured in the parking lot, officials said.

When officers arrived, they found Golden in critical condition and rushed her to Sinai Grace Hospital, where she worked as a respiratory therapist. She died from her injuries.

Read: Police announce arrest in deadly carjacking of Tracie Golden outside Detroit liquor store

A vigil was held at Siani Grace on Friday, celebrating the life and birthday of the beloved woman.

“It’s a beautiful day for my queen,” Tracie’s husband, John Golden, said.

Coworkers remembered Golden as a leader, saying she served as their union steward.

“She was something that was amazing to have and with her gone now that light has been extinguished from the employees and everyone is really hurting over her loss,” coworker George Trigge said.

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About the Author:

Jacqueline Francis is an award-winning journalist who joined the WDIV team in September 2022. Prior to Local 4, she reported for the NBC affiliate in West Michigan. When she’s not on the job, Jacqueline enjoys taking advantage of all the wonders Michigan has to offer, from ski trips up north to beach days with her dog, Ace.