STERLING HEIGHTS, Mich. – Sterling Heights police Lt. Aaron Susalla detailed the fatal shooting of a man during a welfare check.
On Dec. 3, 2025, at about 3:30 p.m., Sterling Heights police responded to the 44,000 block of Apple Blossom Drive for a welfare check on a man who may have been suicidal, said Susala.
When officers arrived, they found the man holding a gun to his head.
Susalla said officers retreated and called in a trained negotiator, who spent over an hour trying to resolve the situation peacefully.
“Ultimately, the officers perceived a threat and unfortunately had to shoot the individual for their protection and the protection of everyone on scene,” said Susala.
The Sterling Heights Fire Department was on scene and immediately rendered aid, but the man later died from his gunshot wounds.
Susalla said he did not have information on how many times the man was shot.
Regarding procedure, Susala explained that officers always aim for a peaceful resolution.
“Our negotiators are great. They go through a lot of training. Unfortunately, in these sad circumstances, the negotiations don’t always work,” Susalla said.
Following department policy, Susalla said officers involved in the shooting were placed on paid administrative leave to allow for report writing and ensure all checks and balances are in place.
Susala also addressed the rise in mental health calls.
“We handle an abundant amount of mental health. It is a huge concern and something the police world recognizes. Here in Sterling Heights, we have many resources, a crisis negotiations team, a crisis intervention team, and a caseworker to offer resources,” Susalla said.
Susalla emphasized the department’s commitment to safety and mental health awareness.
“We pride ourselves in a safe community. By recognizing mental health issues and providing resources, I think we’re ahead of the curve to prevent these types of situations,” Susalla said.
Though the negotiations did not succeed in this case, Susala noted the positive outcome that no one else was harmed.
“The silver lining is that everybody else in the public is safe,” Susalla said.