Father Of Five Shot Dead Outside West Side Detroit Home
DETROIT (WWJ) - A pastor-in-training and father of five children was gunned down and killed outside of his home on Detroit's west side.
The shooting happened around 12:30 a.m. Friday on Huntington Road near Santa Maria Street, not far from McNichols and Evergreen roads.
Anthony Taylor, Sr. says his 45-year-old son Tony had just returned home from a late night shift at his job, a counselor for those with drug addiction and other life problems, when he heard gunshots outside.
He knew his son had just pulled up, so Anthony Taylor went to check on his car. When he didn't see anything unusual, he turned around -- and that's when he made the horrific discovery.
"I was walking back in the house and as I walked in the house," he said, getting emotional, "I saw his foot in the bushes, and that's when I knew."
Police responded to the scene but Tony Taylor was beyond help; he was declared dead at the scene.
Marshell Taylor, the victim's mother, said her son had five children ranging in age from 14 to 24.
"I'm numb. I mean, that's my son," she said. "He was a good man, a good man. I just can't believe this is happening."
Some reports indicate Tony Taylor might have been on the phone with his girlfriend when the shooting took place, and that she heard the murder.
"This has just been a tragic day for me," said Anthony Taylor. "The person that did this, I would hope they turn themselves in. If they don't, I hope the police catch them."
At this point, police have no description of the gunman. A person of interest is currently being questioned by investigators. Police say the person in question is not considered a suspect, but may have information on the shooting.
The victim's uncle, Bill Taylor, wonders if his nephew knew his killer.
"It doesn't appear to be any type of drive-by, or whatever," he said. "I mean, it's almost like he was targeted."
Anyone with information is urged to contact police at 313-267-4600, or submit a tip anonymously to Crime Stoppers at 1-800-SPEAK-UP.
