July 7, 2003

EAST LANSING. Michigan State Police officials are reporting the death of Trooper Kevin M. Marshall, 33 years old, of the Newaygo Post. Marshall was fatally shot today during a standoff with a barricaded gunman at a residence in southwestern Newaygo County.

During the early morning hours of July 7, officers from the Hesperia Police Department and the Newaygo County Sheriff’s Department attempted to serve a felony warrant for Criminal Sexual Conduct on an individual who barricaded himself in his home.

The Michigan State Police Emergency Support Team was requested and responded to the scene. When negotiations were attempted, the suspect fired two shots at the officers.

After negotiations failed, a State Police entry team entered the residence where they were met with gunfire.

Marshall, an eight-year veteran of the department and a member of the Emergency Support Team, was fatally shot. He was transported to Gerber Hospital in Fremont and airlifted to Spectrum Butterworth Hospital in Grand Rapids where he expired during surgery.

Marshall was a graduate of the 111^th Recruit School and was assigned to the Newaygo Post. He is survived by his wife and two children.

Michigan State Police Director Colonel Tadarial J. Sturdivant said, "This is a sad day for the Michigan State Police, the state of Michigan and the Marshall family. Today we lost a courageous and caring young man in the prime of his life. Our thoughts and prayers go out to his family and loved ones."

Governor Jennifer M. Granholm, who was on hand in May to honor Marshall when he was presented with the Michigan State Police Bravery Award, issued the following statement this evening:

"I join my fellow citizens in mourning the loss of Trooper Marshall and my heart goes out to his wife, children and entire family. Trooper Marshall was a true hero and his loss is a grim reminder of the danger our first responders place themselves in everyday so that we might be safe."

Marshall is the 49^th Michigan State Police trooper to die in the line of duty. The last death was Trooper Rick Johnson who died on May 6, 2000, after being struck by a vehicle while making a traffic stop.

At 10:30 p.m., the suspect who shot Marshall remained barricaded in his residence.

Read more press releases from the Michigan State Police.