City, community leaders, police consider options to address gun violence in Downtown Detroit

Police Chief James White to hold briefing Thursday

DETROIT – Six shootings over the weekend in and around Greektown and the Riverfront have the city of Detroit exploring all of its options.

Councilwoman Mary Waters is asking the Detroit Law Department to explore making Greektown, Hart Plaza, and the Riverfront gun-free zones.

“I am deeply concerned after this weekend, and I believe I’ve demonstrated that by at least looking at gun-free zones,” Waters said.

The council is looking at expanded options for recreation for youth in the city this summer.

“As we look at events from the past weekend, the one thing that is very disturbing is that you see some of these kids out there were 13 and 14 years old,” said Councilman Fred Durhal Jr.

Detroit police Chief James White is meeting with Greektown businesses to discuss summer enforcement, including shutting Monroe Street down to traffic.

Expect a briefing from White on Thursday, April 20, on expanded enforcement, not just downtown but also in the neighborhoods.


About the Authors:

Brandon Carr is a digital content producer for ClickOnDetroit and has been with WDIV Local 4 since November 2021. Brandon is the 2015 Solomon Kinloch Humanitarian award recipient for Community Service.