Detroit police have apprehended a second suspect in connection with the fatal shooting that occurred at an O’Reilly Auto Parts store on Detroit’s west side the previous week. This update signifies considerable advancement in the investigation.
“We’ve achieved significant progress in this case since last Thursday,” Detroit Police Chief James Craig stated during a recent news conference. “The community’s invaluable support for the victim’s family and the numerous tips received have been instrumental in our progress. We extend our deepest gratitude to the community for their cooperation.”
This announcement of a second arrest follows closely after the apprehension of a female suspect just the day before, marking rapid developments in the pursuit of justice for the victim and the community affected by this crime at a local auto parts store.
The suspect recently taken into custody is identified as a 39-year-old black male. He was initially detained on outstanding traffic warrants. While police have not yet released his identity to the public, Chief Craig confirmed they are seeking a warrant to charge him with accessory after the fact and harboring a criminal.
This arrest comes on the heels of the Monday night arrest of Shawnta Sharee Anderson, 23. Anderson was apprehended at a residence in the 6000 block of Colfax. Police allege that Anderson is the individual who fired the fatal shot that tragically killed James Haller Jr., 75, the manager of the O’Reilly auto parts store. Chief Craig noted that Anderson has a limited prior criminal record, with only one misdemeanor arrest for larceny.
Authorities are still actively searching for a third individual, Eboni Monae Mcewen-Ross, 28, who is also believed to be connected to the shooting. Investigators suspect she may have fled to Ohio, extending the reach of the investigation beyond state lines as they seek to bring all involved parties to justice.
The fatal shooting of James Haller Jr. occurred at approximately 5:30 p.m. on November 1. Haller was reportedly shot in the head when he encountered two females in the process of robbing the store, located at 16830 Schaefer, near the intersection of Six Mile and the Lodge Freeway. This location is a familiar spot for many in Detroit looking for “o’reilly car parts near me”, highlighting the local impact of this crime.
Patricia Haller, the victim’s wife, along with other family members, joined Chief Craig at Tuesday’s news conference. Visibly emotional, Mrs. Haller expressed her relief and gratitude upon hearing of the arrests. “Thank you, Jesus, thank you, Jesus, thank you, Jesus, that they got them. That’s all I wanted: for them to get them,” she said, her voice filled with emotion as she fought back tears.
In response to this tragic event, local O’Reilly store management has offered a $10,000 reward for information leading to the resolution of the case. Additionally, Crime Stoppers of Michigan is offering a separate $2,500 reward. These combined rewards underscore the commitment of both the company and the community to ensuring justice for James Haller Jr. and his family.
Anyone possessing information related to this case is urged to contact the Detroit police department at (313) 596-2260 or Crime Stoppers of Michigan at 1-800-SPEAK-UP. Community cooperation remains crucial as the investigation continues and efforts are made to apprehend the remaining suspect and fully resolve this tragic incident at a neighborhood O’Reilly Auto Parts.
