WESTLAND, Mich. – A suspect has been taken into custody after a Salvation Army bell ringer was shot and killed at a Kroger store in Westland on Thursday, police said.
The shooting happened at about 6:10 p.m. on Thursday, Dec. 18, 2025, at the Kroger at 36430 Ford Road, according to a release from the Westland Police Department.
When officers arrived, they found a Salvation Army bell ringer dead inside the store, with multiple gunshot wounds.
Police said the suspect fled the store immediately after the shooting, but investigators identified and arrested the suspect early Friday.
The suspect’s identity is being withheld until they are charged and arraigned.
“Initial investigation indicates that this was not a random occurrence and that the victim and suspect knew each other prior to this incident,” according to the release.
Kroger released the following statement after the shooting:
“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 Westland Police Department.”
Kroger
The Salvation Army released the following statement on Friday, Dec. 19:
“The Salvation Army is profoundly heartbroken by the incident that took place last night between two individuals in Westland which resulted in a tragic loss of life. We hold all those affected in prayer, asking for comfort and peace for the individual involved, their loved ones, and the Westland community.
As a faith-based organization, we lean on God’s presence during this time and are working closely with the Westland Police Department as they investigate. We respectfully ask that the privacy of the individual and their family be honored. All further questions should be directed to the Westland Police Department."
Lt. Col. Steve Merritt, Divisional Commander, The Salvation Army Great Lakes Division
The investigation is ongoing. Police say more information will be released as it becomes available.