Prosecutor Makes Decision on Officer-Involved Shooting

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. — Kent County Prosecutor Christopher Becker announced Thursday that he will not file criminal charges against the Grand Rapids Police officer who fatally shot Da'Quain Johnson on February 18, 2026.

In a news conference held at Michigan State Police district headquarters, Becker stated he 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 during the press conference.

Investigation Details

According to the Grand Rapids Police Department, officers were pursuing Johnson, 32, on a bicycle when he rode into a parking lot on Eastern Avenue SE near Logan Street. A K-9 unit then caught up to Johnson, and officers in body camera footage can be heard repeatedly telling him to drop what they believe was a loaded gun.

A GRPD officer shot Johnson three times in the back. He died in the hospital the next day, according to former GRPD Police Chief Eric Winstrom.

Becker called the videos he reviewed "the most troubling videos" he has seen in his 30-year career, describing them as "gut wrenching" for the family and the community.

Family and Community Response

Attorneys for Johnson's family have demanded that the GRPD release all video and related records from the incident. The local NAACP has also called for full transparency.

Several body-worn camera and phone videos were played at the prosecutor's news conference, showing the events leading up to the shooting.

Attorneys for Johnson's family stated they are waiting for more information before deciding whether to file a civil lawsuit.

City Response

The City of Grand Rapids issued statements from Mayor David LaGrand, City Manager Mark Washington, and Interim Chief of Police Joe Trigg following the announcement.

Mayor LaGrand said: "The Kent County Prosecutor has concluded his review and reached a decision not to file criminal charges in the shooting of Da'quain Johnson. I respect the independence of the Prosecutor's Office and the Michigan State Police investigation, but I also recognize that this news is deeply painful for many in our community."

The loss of Mr. Johnson remains a profound tragedy, and I continue to mourn alongside his family. My commitment to transparency and the highest professional standards does not end with this decision. I will continue to evaluate our policies and practices to ensure the safety of all as I remain acutely aware of the dangerous nature of police work and the split-second decisions officers must make in the interest of public safety.

City Manager Mark Washington added: "With the Kent County Prosecutor's decision not to pursue criminal charges, the independent criminal investigation into the shooting of Da'Quain Johnson has concluded. I want to thank the Michigan State Police for their thorough work and our community for their patience throughout this process."

Administrative Review Underway

While the criminal investigation has concluded, City Manager Washington stated that internal administrative reviews will continue through the Grand Rapids Police Department and the Office of Oversight and Public Accountability to ensure all department policies were upheld.

Interim Chief of Police Joe Trigg emphasized: "Today, the Kent County Prosecutor's Office announced that no criminal charges will be filed against the officers involved in the February shooting of Da'quain Johnson. While this decision concludes the independent criminal investigation by the Michigan State Police, we remain mindful that a family is mourning and our community is still processing a very difficult event."

The city has partnered with The Wisdom Center to offer free counseling and mental health services throughout April for community members affected by officer-involved shootings.

Three Officers Placed on Leave

Three GRPD officers were placed on administrative leave while the Michigan State Police conducted its independent investigation. The prosecutor's decision now concludes that criminal investigation.

Becker's announcement marks the end of the independent criminal review, though administrative and civil processes may continue separately.

Community Support Resources

Due to the potential for future litigation and the emotional impact on the community, the City of Grand Rapids will not comment publicly beyond these official statements.

Community members seeking support can schedule appointments through The Wisdom Center at 1333 Alger St SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49507, by calling 616-419-8103.

The city encourages continued constructive dialogue and asks that the community remains united as they move forward from this incident.