Date November 9, 2015
Fairlane Mall Shooting (UPDATE)
Dearborn, Mi. — On November 9, 2015 at approximately 4:30 P.M. Dearborn Police Officers responded to the Fairlane Town Center at 18900 Michigan Avenue on a report of gunshots fired. The mall was placed on a temporary lockdown as the incident was investigated. During the preliminary investigation the complainant, a twenty-four year old Detroit resident, reported that he was shopping at Hutch’s Jewelry Store in the mall with a friend. As the victim exited the store he was approached by an unknown male suspect. The suspect grabbed a pair of designer eyeglasses off of the victim’s face and a confrontation ensued. The victim stated the suspect then reached for a handgun that was on his person. The victim, who has a valid Michigan Concealed Pistol License, drew his pistol and fired two shots at the suspect. The suspect then fled the mall via the J.C. Penny store along with two other unidentified male subjects. The entire mall was searched by Dearborn Police and Fairlane Town Center Security and the lockdown was cancelled when it was determined that all was safe. Dearborn Police Detectives are investigating the case. Anyone with information on the suspects or incident should contact the Dearborn Police Department. Chief Haddad stated, “This was an isolated incident at the mall and all investigative resources will be utilized to bring the suspect to justice. “
UPDATE 11/13/2015
On November 13, 2015, the Wayne County Prosecutor’s Office charged Diente Watts, a 22 year old Detroit resident, with Armed Robbery, Felony Firearm, and Carrying a Concealed Weapon. Watts appeared before Judge Sam Salamey in the 19th District court for arraignment. Judge Salamey set bond at $400,000 C/B and required Watts to be subject to GPS tether monitoring. The preliminary examination is scheduled for 9:00 AM on December 4th, 2015 at the 19th District Court. Per Wayne County Prosecutor’s Office Maria Miller, the case is open and the investigation is ongoing.
Dearborn Police Chief Ronald Haddad stated that “this is yet another example of quickly resolving a serious case due to excellent investigative work and collaboration with our law enforcement partners. We will continue to vigorously work to maintain a safe community for our residents and visitors, especially as we enter the holiday shopping season.”
