A Michigan community is mourning the death of a 3-year-old girl who was fatally shot during what authorities described as an “active violence incident” in Delta Township. Deputies with the Eaton County Sheriff’s Office responded to the scene on Friday, Feb. 13, and found four victims suffering from gunshot wounds.
Despite life-saving efforts, the child was pronounced dead at the scene. Three other victims — a 37-year-old man, a 33-year-old woman, and a 72-year-old woman — were also shot. Officials have not formally released the child’s name, though she was identified as Harlow in a GoFundMe referenced by local media.
Suspect Charged With Premeditated Murder
Authorities arrested 21-year-old Alexander Lamar Banks Jr., who has been charged by the Eaton County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office with premeditated murder, three counts of assault with intent to murder, and multiple firearms offenses.
According to court documents cited by local outlets, investigators allege Banks intentionally drove his vehicle into the family as they were walking with the child in a pink wagon. Security footage reportedly shows Banks exiting the vehicle, dropping a backpack, and opening fire on the family. Prosecutors allege he reloaded and continued shooting.
Investigators further allege Banks told police he believed he had to kill someone to “save his family” after being influenced by online threats. He has been referred for a competency evaluation after standing mute at arraignment. His attorney indicated the defense will argue that Banks is mentally incompetent to stand trial.
Elderly Woman Critically Injured While Trying to Help
The 72-year-old woman, identified in fundraising efforts as Barb, was critically injured while attempting to intervene. According to her family, she ran toward the danger and distracted the alleged gunman, potentially preventing further harm. Court documents indicate she was shot multiple times and suffered severe head and facial injuries, requiring brain surgery.
Authorities say her actions may have stopped the attack on the child’s mother, who reportedly told police she believed the suspect was attempting to break her neck when he pulled her hair.
The investigation remains ongoing as the community continues to grapple with the tragic loss and the violent circumstances surrounding the case.
