Investigation into MSP member whose unmarked vehicle struck and killed man has concluded – 9&10 News

On Friday, Michigan State Police completed their investigation into the April 17, 2024, death of Samuel Sterling, who was struck and killed by an MSP member.

The Sixth District MSP Fugitive Team, along with other law enforcement agencies, conducted an operation in Kentwood attempting to arrest Sterling, who was wanted on multiple warrants. Around 11:20 a.m., officers spotted him at a gas station at 52nd Street and Eastern Avenue.

Several officers pursued him on foot and an MSP member followed him in an unmarked vehicle. They converged on a Burger King parking lot, where the unmarked MSP vehicle struck Sterling. He was taken to hospital where he later died from his injuries.

The investigation report and all evidence will be forwarded to the Michigan Attorney General’s Office, which will review the case to determine whether criminal charges are warranted.

Videos compiled by three police departments – MSP, Grand Rapids Police Department and Wyoming Police Department – were released, but redacted to obscure the identities of undercover officers and bystanders.

You can watch the video here, but we warn you – it could be disturbing.

The MSP driver was not wearing a body camera due to his assignment with a federal task force, and the unmarked vehicle he was driving was not equipped with an in-car camera.

“Samuel Sterling’s death was unacceptable. My heart goes out to his family and the Grand Rapids community,” said Governor Gretchen Whitmer. “The state trooper involved is suspended without pay. The MSP investigation has concluded and Attorney General Dana Nessel is currently reviewing to make a final determination on any allegations. I have every confidence that her office will work quickly to make a fair and equitable decision as to whether criminal charges are appropriate. Given the video footage showing a departure from MSP protocols and the department’s high standards, I expect the State of Michigan will take steps to terminate the officer’s employment if criminal charges are filed.”

“Samuel Sterling’s death is an absolute tragedy. The Sterling family and the Grand Rapids community deserve answers, accountability and justice,” said Lieutenant Governor Garlin Gilchrist II. “I hear, see and feel the incredible pain people are experiencing right now and the trauma this is causing for so many . In my heart, I know that we can build a world where every interaction within our community, especially with law enforcement, results in a safe outcome for everyone. We must wrap our arms around each other as we continue to work toward this goal together. I would like to thank Colonel Grady for showing leadership in difficult times, handling the matter with true professionalism while ensuring a fair and thorough investigation.”

Before the video footage was released to the public, MSP Director Col. James F. Grady II met with the Sterling and Cage families so they could view the video footage privately.

The MSP member who was driving the vehicle that struck Mr. Sterling remains suspended pending the outcome of the review by the Michigan Attorney General’s Office and any subsequent criminal proceedings or internal investigation. The Michigan State Police Troopers Association contract prohibits the disclosure of a member’s name or personnel file unless they are accused of a crime.