In a somber development that grips Melvindale, former suspect Michael Lopez, the 44-year-old man linked to the fatal shooting of police officer Mohamed Said, has been taken into custody. According to the WWJ Newsradio, Lopez was arrested without incident yesterday evening, on Detroit’s southwest side, near Michigan and Livernois.
The arrest follows what has been a tense period for the community, punctuated by a concerted multi-agency manhunt. After a tip led to his location, Lopez was found lounging on the porch of a vacant home on the 3000 block of Gilbert Street, sources told FOX 2 Detroit. Details surrounding Said's death were earlier reported: the young officer was responding to a suspicious person call near Oakwood and Dix when he encountered Lopez, which led to a struggle and the subsequent fatal shooting on Sunday.
"We as a community will always honor the sacrifice he made, protecting and serving our residents with unwavering courage and commitment to Melvindale," Melvindale's mayor, Nicole Shkira, praised the fallen officer. As told by Melvindale Police Chief Robert Kennaley during a press conference, Lopez’s apprehension means that "we can all finally take a breath, and go home and sleep and be with our loved ones," emphasizing the relief his capture has brought to the local community.
Officer Said, known for his dedication, was also remembered as a valuable community member. Having been born and raised in Melvindale, he remained an active local figure. "He came up and asked if he could pet my dog, which I said 'yes.' And then he says, ‘how do I be a police officer?’ So I basically guided him on how to become a police officer," Kennaley recalled his first meeting with Said, recounted during a press conference, marking Said's journey from aspiration to public service. Said's funeral arrangements will include a visitation at the Ford Center for Performing Arts in Dearborn, followed by services at the American Moslem Society in Dearborn.
As reported by hoodline, there was a $20,000 reward offered for information leading to Lopez's capture before his arrest, an initiative supported by local and state law enforcement agencies. Through the cooperative efforts of multiple departments, and with the help of vigilant civilians, this intense search has come to a close. Said is recognized posthumously as the third Michigan police officer to lose life in the line of duty within the span of a month.
