Prosecutor Says Officer Acted in Self-Defense After Review of Body Camera Footage

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. — Kent County Prosecutor Chris Becker announced Thursday that he will not file criminal charges against the Grand Rapids Police Department officer involved in the fatal shooting of Da'Quain Johnson on February 18.

In a press conference at Michigan State Police district headquarters, Becker said he reviewed the evidence and could not prove beyond a reasonable doubt that the officer did not act in self-defense.

"I cannot show that the decision by Officer Christopher Carlson of the Grand Rapids Police Department to use deadly force that night was not honest and reasonable," Becker said.

Incident Details

The shooting occurred in a parking lot on Eastern Avenue at Logan Street. Video evidence showed Johnson fleeing from officers on a bicycle when a K-9 unit deployed and bit him. Officers then attempted to subdue him on the ground.

Investigators believe Johnson reached for a loaded handgun during the struggle. Johnson was taken to a hospital and died the following day from a gunshot wound to the back, according to the death certificate obtained by 13 ON YOUR SIDE.

Becker described the videos he had to review as "the most troubling videos" he has seen in his 30-year career. He called them "gut-wrenching" and expressed difficulty imagining what the family is going through after losing a loved one.

Officer History

Officer Christopher Carlson joined the GRPD in 2019. He was also involved in another fatal officer-involved shooting in November 2024 when a man was shot and killed near Trinity Health Hospital. In that incident, prosecutors determined it was likely a "suicide by cop" situation. Becker also decided not to pursue charges in that case, stating that the officers were justified in firing their weapons.

Three GRPD officers were placed on administrative leave while the Michigan State Police conducted the investigation, which concluded on March 3.

Community Response

The shooting has sparked significant community pushback. Protestors took to the streets the day after the incident, and hundreds attended a rally on March 1. Angelica Johnson, the mother of the deceased, appeared at rallies and a City Commission meeting.

"I will get justice," she said at one rally. "I will get justice. I won't sit back."

Ben Crump and Ven Johnson, civil rights attorneys representing Johnson's family, have called his death an "assassination" and have refuted the Grand Rapids Police Department's narrative of what occurred.

City Statements

Following the prosecutor's announcement, the City of Grand Rapids issued statements from Mayor David LaGrand, City Manager Mark Washington, and Interim Chief of Police Joe Trigg.

Mayor LaGrand said he respects the independence of the Prosecutor's Office and the MSPI investigation but recognized that "this news is deeply painful for many in our community." He stated that his commitment to transparency and professional standards does not end with this decision and that he will continue to evaluate city policies and practices.

City Manager Washington acknowledged that "there are some in the community who are grieving Mr. Johnson's death and the investigative outcome" but noted his work and the city's internal work is not finished. He directed the GRPD and the Office of Oversight and Public Accountability to move forward with administrative reviews to ensure all department policies were upheld.

Interim Chief of Police Joe Trigg said the department remains mindful that "a family is mourning and our community is still processing a very difficult event." He emphasized that the department's priorities are the safety of the community and the integrity of the GRPD.

Mental Health Support Available

The City of Grand Rapids has partnered with the Wisdom Center at 1333 Alger Street SE to offer free counseling and mental health services throughout the month of April to community members who would like support processing officer-involved shootings.

Community members may schedule an appointment by calling the Wisdom Center at 616-419-8103.

Civil Rights Groups

Several body-worn camera and phone videos were played at the news conference, but attorneys for Johnson's family and the local branch of the NAACP have demanded that the GRPD release all video and related records.

Attorneys for Johnson's family stated they are waiting for more information before making a decision about whether a civil lawsuit may be filed.

Investigation Timeline

The Michigan State Police took over the investigation after the GRPD released some body camera footage. The prosecutors received the investigation and findings from MSPI on Tuesday, March 3.

Becker held a press conference on Thursday, April 2, to announce his decision. Three officers were placed on administrative leave while the MSPI investigation was ongoing.