Michigan State Police Trooper Charged with Murder in Fatal Pursuit Incident

A Michigan State Police trooper has been charged with murder and faces a possible life sentence for allegedly running down a suspect in an unmarked squad car during a police chase, resulting in fatal injuries.

Michigan's attorney general, Dana Nessel, announced Tuesday that she was bringing charges against Det. Sgt. Brian Keely, 50, in connection with the death of Samuel Sterling, 25, who was Black.

Keely is charged with one count of second-degree murder, which carries a potential life prison sentence, and one count of involuntary manslaughter, a felony carrying a 15-year sentence. Sterling's family welcomed the news — his mother, Andrica Cage, told NBC affiliate WOOD-TV of Grand Rapids she cried with happiness.

Keely and the state police Sixth District Fugitive Task Force were attempting to arrest Sterling, a probation absconder who was wanted on several felony warrants, on April 17, the attorney general said. He was spotted at a gas station in Kentwood, a suburb of Grand Rapids, and after being approached by police fled on foot, according to the attorney general's statement.

"A number of MSP troopers and other local law enforcement agents proceeded to chase Sterling, both in their vehicles and by foot, when the unmarked vehicle D/Sgt Keely was driving turned and struck Sterling in a nearby fast-food restaurant parking lot," the attorney general's office said in a statement.

Samuel Sterling Moments Before He Was Hit by a Car Driven by Michigan State Police Trooper Det. Sgt. Brian Keely

Samuel Sterling moments before he was hit by a car driven by Michigan State Police trooper Det. Sgt. Brian Keely. WOOD

Sterling was taken to the University of Michigan Metro Health Hospital but died from his injuries later that day. “Det. Sgt. Keely’s actions that day were legally, grossly negligent and created a very high risk of death or great bodily harm, which could have otherwise been prevented,” Nessel said in a video announcing the charges.

Body-worn camera footage released by state police shows Keely on the ground and badly injured, crying out in pain.

Ven Johnson, the Sterling family attorney, told WOOD-TV that the officer "clearly used a police car as a deadly weapon, knowing full well that Samuel was right there and that by steering into him, by going up and over a curb to try to cut him off, he knew that he could hit him."

"Some would say that he intentionally hit him, which is what it looked like to me on the video," Johnson added.

Michigan State Police Detective Sergeant Brian Keely

Michigan State Police Detective Sergeant Brian Keely. WOOD

Marc Curtis, attorney for Keely, told WOOD-TV that Keely was a religious man who was "broken-hearted" for Sterling's family and said the charges were the result of political pressure. "It is unfortunate that in this time of political correctness, Michigan's attorney general has chosen to ignore the facts of this incident and rely on political pressure," he said in a written statement.

"It is also unfortunate that our governor, without having seen or heard all the evidence in the case, chose to interject her opinion and side against law enforcement in this matter," he continued.

Curtis added that while tragic, the "accident could have also been avoided if Mr. Sterling would have simply complied with the commands of the detectives." Curtis previously said that his client had "no intention" of harming Sterling.

Michigan State Police voluntarily referred the case to the attorney general on May 10. Keely has been suspended since the day of the incident.

"Public integrity is a top priority for my Department and we remain committed to providing a thorough and just review and resolution in each case brought before us," Nessel said.

Ongoing Investigation and Community Impact

Keely's arraignment date has not yet been set, and the investigation continues to draw significant public attention. The case has sparked debates about police conduct and accountability, particularly in situations involving high-speed pursuits and the use of vehicles as potential weapons.

Community leaders and activists have called for increased transparency and reforms in policing practices to prevent similar incidents in the future. The Michigan State Police have stated that they are cooperating fully with the investigation and are committed to ensuring that justice is served.

Legal Implications and Future Proceedings

The charges against Keely mark a significant step in addressing the use of excessive force by law enforcement officers. If convicted, Keely could face a life sentence, highlighting the serious legal consequences for officers found guilty of gross negligence or misconduct in the line of duty.

The case is expected to go through rigorous legal scrutiny, with both the defense and prosecution preparing for a potentially lengthy trial. Legal experts suggest that the outcome of this case could set a precedent for how similar cases are handled in the future, potentially influencing policy changes and training programs for law enforcement agencies nationwide.

Public Reactions and Calls for Change

The incident has elicited a range of reactions from the public, with many expressing outrage and calling for systemic changes within the police force. Vigils and protests have been organized in memory of Samuel Sterling, with community members advocating for justice and demanding greater oversight of police activities.

As the case progresses, it will likely remain a focal point for discussions on racial justice and police reform. The community's response underscores the ongoing need for dialogue and action to address issues of police violence and accountability.

Community Support and Healing Efforts

In the wake of the tragic incident, community organizations and leaders are emphasizing the importance of healing and support for Sterling's family and the broader community. Mental health resources and counseling services are being made available to those affected by the incident, helping them cope with the emotional aftermath.

Local churches and advocacy groups are organizing support networks and providing platforms for community members to express their concerns and seek justice. These efforts aim to foster a sense of solidarity and resilience as the community navigates the legal proceedings and works towards meaningful change.

Broader Implications for Police Accountability

The charges against Det. Sgt. Brian Keely are part of a broader national conversation about police accountability and the use of force. Cases like this one are drawing increased scrutiny and prompting calls for comprehensive reforms to ensure that law enforcement officers are held to the highest standards of conduct.

Advocates are pushing for measures such as enhanced training on de-escalation techniques, improved oversight mechanisms, and greater transparency in investigations involving police actions. The goal is to build trust between law enforcement agencies and the communities they serve, ensuring that justice is upheld and that similar tragedies are prevented in the future.

Conclusion

The charges against Det. Sgt. Brian Keely for the death of Samuel Sterling represent a critical moment in the pursuit of justice and police accountability. As the legal case unfolds, it will be closely watched for its implications on law enforcement practices and community relations in Michigan and beyond. The outcome of this case has the potential to drive significant changes and reinforce the importance of integrity and accountability within the police force. The developments in this case will continue to be closely monitored, reflecting broader societal demands for justice and reform in policing practices.