Canton, MI — A heartbreaking tragedy unfolded Tuesday afternoon when a 13-year-old girl was fatally shot at the Ridgeline Apartments, formerly known as the Crossing of Canton. The devastating incident has left the Canton community in mourning and sparked urgent calls for answers and justice.
Community Mourns the Loss of Derek Bellanger, A Warrior for the People
What Happened
According to the Canton Police Department, officers responded to 911 calls reporting a shooting at the apartment complex near Joy Road and Haggerty Boulevard around 12:24 p.m. on Tuesday.
Emergency responders immediately performed life-saving measures, but tragically, the young girl succumbed to her injuries at the scene.
Authorities confirmed that a person of interest is in custody, and they do not believe there is an ongoing threat to the public. Investigators worked late into the evening collecting evidence and interviewing witnesses. The apartment complex remains closed as the investigation continues.
Who Was the Victim?
Officials have not yet released the identity of the 13-year-old girl, pending notification of family members. Friends, neighbors, and community members have described the victim as a bright young soul whose life was cut tragically short.
The loss has deeply shaken the community, and local leaders have expressed heartfelt condolences to the family during this unimaginable time.
Background and Timeline
The shooting disrupted what had been a routine afternoon at Ridgeline Apartments. Police and emergency crews quickly flooded the scene in response to the alarming calls.
During the police response, a Canton police vehicle was involved in a separate collision near Cherry Hill and Lilley Roads. Officials reported minor injuries from that crash, clarifying that it was unrelated to the shooting investigation.
Authorities have urged anyone with information about the incident to come forward to assist in their efforts.
Community and Social Media Reaction
The tragedy has sent shockwaves through the Canton community.
- Residents have expressed grief, outrage, and a demand for accountability.
- Local leaders are calling for transparency and swift justice as investigators piece together what happened.
- On social media, messages of support and condolences for the victim’s family continue to pour in, with many urging privacy and respect for the grieving loved ones.
Official Statement and What Happens Next
In a statement, the Canton Police Department said:
“We are heartbroken by this loss, and our thoughts are with the victim’s family and the entire community.”
The investigation remains ongoing, and officials have pledged to provide updates as new information becomes available. Authorities stress the importance of community cooperation to ensure justice for the young victim.
Conclusion
The fatal shooting of a 13-year-old girl at Ridgeline Apartments has left a deep scar on the Canton community. As investigators continue their work, friends, neighbors, and loved ones mourn a life lost far too soon.
Anyone with information is urged to contact the Canton Police Department immediately.
1 thought on “13-Year-Old Fatally Shot at Ridgeline Apartments in Canton, Michigan”