WESTLAND, Mich. – Westland police have arrested a suspect in the shooting at Kroger that took the life of a Salvation Army bell ringer.
Police are releasing new details about the incident.
The sound of the Salvation Army bell, a symbol of the holiday season, has gone silent in Westland.
Evelyn Mason, a Westland resident, said, “I can’t believe it, it’s unbelievable and a bell ringer. I mean, come on, they’re helping people. Somebody is sick.”
On Thursday (Dec. 19) evening, a Salvation Army bell ringer was shot and killed at the Kroger on Ford Road.
When asked about her initial thoughts upon hearing about the shooting at her local Kroger, Westland resident Robin Towler said, “Well, I decided not to come shopping last. I decided to come today instead.”
The suspect fled the store immediately after the shooting, but police acted quickly, identifying and arresting him early Friday morning.
As of now, the names of the victim and suspect have not been released. Police say the two knew each other.
Westland resident Ric Barsy commented, “It’s just sad that it happens all over, and I’m sorry that it happened in my neighborhood.”
The Salvation Army released a statement saying, “We lift up in prayer all who are affected, especially the individual involved, their loved ones, and the Westland community. We are working closely with the Westland Police Department as they investigate the situation.”
Kroger also expressed sympathy, stating, “We are deeply saddened by the incident that occurred outside of our Westland Kroger located at 36430 Ford Road. We are cooperating with local law enforcement and will continue to follow their guidance while the police investigation continues. To protect the integrity of the ongoing investigation, we are deferring all questions to the Westland Police Department.”
Robin Towler added, “I’m hoping it’s not the man I gave money to last week, he seemed very nice.”
This is an ongoing investigation, and updates will be provided as more information becomes available.