STERLING HEIGHTS, Mich. – A man was fatally shot by Sterling Heights police after an armed standoff during a welfare check.
The incident occurred on Wednesday (Dec. 3), at approximately 3:30 p.m., when Sterling Heights police officers responded to the 44000 block of Apple Blossom Drive for a welfare check on a man reported to be suicidal.
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Upon arrival, police said they made contact with the man, who was holding a handgun and appeared to be experiencing a mental health episode.
Officials said trained negotiators were called to the scene and engaged with the man for over an hour.
Ultimately, officers said they perceived a threat and were forced to shoot the man to protect everyone present.
The Sterling Heights Fire Department was on scene and immediately treated the man, but he later died from his gunshot wounds.
No other community members or officers were injured during the incident.
Following Sterling Heights Police Department policy, the investigation has been turned over to the Macomb County Sheriff’s Department.
Any questions about the incident will be handled by the sheriff’s department.
Per SHPD policy, officers involved in the shooting and those on scene have been placed on paid administrative leave.
No information will be released until the next of kin can be notified.