Indiana

Abduction suspect killed in Benton Harbor police shootout identified

The man killed in a police shootout after officers say he abducted his estranged wife from her work place has been identified.

Marcus Deon Meridy, 44, died at the American Inn hotel in Benton Harbor, Mich., where he was holding his estranged wife hostage on Wednesday morning, Nov. 18.

The victim, Meridy’s estranged wife, was shot in the shoulder, according to our news partners ABC 57. She was taken to a nearby hospital and is expected to live.

A Michigan State Police officer was shot at by Meridy, but the bullet lodged in his bulletproof vest. 

Police say Meridy walked into The Willows in St. Joseph, Mich., on Wednesday morning, Nov. 18, and abducting the woman at gunpoint, then taking her to the American Inn, WOOD-TV reported. The Willows was placed on lockdown for part of Wednesday morning, but the residents were safe.

Meridy took the victim in one car, assaulted her, and then switched to a different car, which he drove to the hotel, WSBT reported.

Officers heard a gunshot and then entered the hotel room. That’s when Meridy began shooting at police and they returned fire, ABC 57 reported.

Both the abduction and the officer-involved shooting will be investigated.

Related posts

IDOE presents proposal to streamline number of diplomas

95.3 MNC

South Bend’s new ‘Madison Lifestyle District’ project sees progress

Jon Zimney

Man leads police on pursuit in stolen vehicle

Jon Zimney