Alleged Shooter Remains Held After Father Of 3 Killed Outside Inkster Nightclub
DEARBORN (WWJ) - As an investigation continues into a fatal nightclub shooting in Inkster over the weekend, police now say they believe the suspect and the victim — a father of three — were blood related.
The alleged gunman, 28-year-old Rashard Bell, remained behind bars Monday afternoon as Michigan State Police released more details and a photo of the victim in the case.
According to police, Bell and 26-year-old Joseph Franklin of Dearborn got into an argument shortly before 2 a.m. Saturday at the Stardust Lounge on Inkster Road at Carlysle Street, just south of Michigan Avenue.
Police said when Franklin left the bar with his mother, Bell followed them into the parking lot where he fired several shots. Franklin was struck at least once in the torso and was taken to a local hospital where he died from his injuries.
No one else was hurt.
Around 50 witnesses were interviewed, police said. State troopers apprehended Bell later Saturday afternoon after an extensive search for the man they said was to be "considered armed and dangerous."
Police said Monday that they believe Bell and Franklin were related. They did not offer any details about the relationship or what may have promoted the dispute.
Expected charges against Bell are pending as the investigation wraps up. When it's complete, police said, the case will be turned over to prosecutors.
