DETROIT – Retired Detroit police Sergeant Devon Jackson, 49, was tragically shot and killed on the Southfield Freeway in Detroit on Dec. 15, 2023, according to Michigan State Police.
His suspected killers remain at large.
Family, friends, and Jackson’s church community members gathered on Monday (Dec. 16) at the Crime Stoppers office of Michigan in Southfield to plead for the public’s help in solving the case.
The group also announced an increased reward to encourage anyone with information to come forward.
“Christmas was Devon’s favorite time of the year,” said Bishop Dobbins of New Way Christian Center, who was also Jackson’s cousin and best friend. “We want to spend this time catching these murderers, in Jesus' name.”
A Life Cut Short
Michigan State Police report that Jackson was driving southbound on the Southfield Freeway near Plymouth Road when he was shot multiple times.
His truck crashed into a concrete wall, and he was ejected from the vehicle, which caught fire. Tragically, he was pronounced dead at the scene.
Monday’s press conference, organized by Crime Stoppers in Southfield, was an emotional plea for justice.
Jackson’s nephew, James Byrd, spoke about his uncle’s profound impact on his life.
“He was a helper to me,” Byrd said. “Without him, I wouldn’t be here. I wouldn’t be standing in front of you all today.”
A call for community action
Jackson’s family and faith community are urging anyone with information about the crime to come forward.
“I make a plea to our community,” said Bishop Princess Dobbins of New Way Christian Center. “Every neighborhood, every mother, every father, every cousin, every sister, every brother—I ask you today to help us find the people who did this to our beloved one.”
The family announced a $13,000 reward for information leading to the arrest and conviction of those responsible. Crime Stoppers is also offering an additional $2,500 reward.
If you have any information related to this reported crime, please call 1-855-MICH-TIP or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-Speak-Up.
