Detroit — Two young men are facing murder charges following a tragic triple shooting at Skinner Park that claimed two lives and left another person wounded. The incident unfolded on June 27, 2025, when an altercation on a bus escalated into violence.
Eighteen-year-old Brandon Lee Ware and 19-year-old William McKinley Wheeler are charged with two counts of first-degree murder, among other charges, for their roles in the shooting. According to law enforcement, the disturbance began when a passenger removed a ski mask from Ware’s head during the bus ride, prompting him to exit the vehicle in agitation.
After leaving the bus, Ware is alleged to have met Wheeler, who was waiting in a truck. The duo then traveled to Duchess Street, where Ware reportedly opened fire on individuals assembled at the park. Tragically, 18-year-old Davlyon Shalmonson-Bey and four-year-old Samir Josiah Grubbs died from their injuries. A 17-year-old boy also suffered serious injuries in the incident. Samir was at the park enjoying an outing with his mother, friends, and siblings at the time.
Police apprehended Ware and Wheeler on July 2, 2025, following tips from the community that facilitated their capture. Both suspects were charged with one count of assault with intent to murder, two counts of discharging a firearm from a vehicle causing death, one count for causing serious injury, and five counts related to felony firearm possession.
They were arraigned in 36th District Court on Saturday, where they were remanded to custody. A court date has been set for July 14, where further proceedings will take place. This incident has sent shockwaves through the community, highlighting concerns over gun violence and safety in public spaces.
Local authorities continue to encourage community engagement and have expressed gratitude for the assistance that led to the arrests. As the legal proceedings unfold, many community members are grappling with the aftermath of this tragic event and the profound impact it has had on families and friends of the victims.