A Michigan State Police detective sergeant is facing charges that include second-degree murder in connection with the April 17 death of a 25-year-old Kentwood man who was crushed by a police SUV while running from authorities, Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel's office announced this week.
Detective Sgt. Brian Keely, 50, of Grand Rapids is charged with second-degree murder and involuntary manslaughter, following the death of Samuel Sterling, who died after fleeing from troopers. A second degree murder conviction could lead to up to life in prison, the Detroit News reports.
The incident happened when the MSP Sixth District's Fugitive Task Force attempted to arrest Sterling, who ran away, according to press release from Nessel's office.
"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," Nessel's office said. "Sterling was transported to the University of Michigan Metro Health Hospital, where he succumbed to his injuries later that day."
In 2016, Keely and his partner, Trooper Carlos Fossati, were given the Michigan State Police Bravery Award after they rescued a woman who'd been abducted at gunpoint and was being held hostage in a hotel room.
