Ypsilanti, Michigan, January 23, 2026
Authorities in Ypsilanti, Michigan, have officially released dashcam footage related to a deputy-involved shooting that took place recently. The incident, which resulted in the death of a 35-year-old man from St. Clair County, began with deputies responding to reports of a reckless driver. Although initial reports suggested that the driver was armed, investigations confirmed that no firearm was present in the vehicle. Sheriff Alyshia Dyer has stated the importance of transparency throughout the investigation process, and all involved deputies have been placed on administrative leave.
Ypsilanti, Michigan – Washtenaw County Deputies Release Dashcam Video of Fatal Shooting
Ypsilanti, Michigan – The Washtenaw County Sheriff’s Office has released dashcam footage from a deputy-involved shooting that occurred on January 6, 2026, in Ypsilanti. The incident resulted in the death of a 35-year-old man from St. Clair County, who was unarmed at the time of the shooting.
Incident Details
On January 6, deputies responded to multiple 911 calls reporting a white van driving erratically in Ypsilanti Township. One caller reported that the driver had threatened his wife with what was believed to be a handgun. Deputies attempted to conduct a traffic stop, but the driver fled, leading to a pursuit that ended when the van crashed near Prospect and Towner streets in Ypsilanti. Deputies approached the vehicle, and shots were fired, resulting in the driver’s death at the scene. Initial reports indicated that the driver was armed with a shotgun; however, subsequent investigations confirmed that no firearm was found in the vehicle.
Investigation and Transparency
Following the incident, the deputies involved were placed on administrative leave, which is standard procedure. The Michigan State Police is conducting an independent investigation into the shooting. Sheriff Alyshia Dyer emphasized the importance of transparency, stating that the release of the dashcam video is intended to provide clarity regarding the sequence of events. She also acknowledged the initial misreporting about the presence of a firearm in the vehicle and expressed condolences to all those affected by the situation.
Background Context
Law enforcement agencies often face challenges in rapidly assessing situations during high-stress encounters. The Washtenaw County Sheriff’s Office has stated its commitment to transparency and accountability, ensuring that all findings from the ongoing investigation will be made public once completed. The release of the dashcam footage is part of this effort to maintain public trust and provide a clear account of the events that transpired.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What led to the fatal shooting in Ypsilanti?
On January 6, 2026, Washtenaw County deputies attempted to stop a white van in Ypsilanti Township after receiving reports of erratic driving and a threat involving a handgun. The driver fled, leading to a pursuit that ended with a crash. Deputies approached the vehicle, and shots were fired, resulting in the driver’s death. Initial reports indicated the driver was armed with a shotgun; however, investigations confirmed no firearm was found in the vehicle.
Who was the driver involved in the incident?
The driver was a 35-year-old man from St. Clair County. His name has not been released due to privacy considerations and respect for the individual’s family.
What is the current status of the deputies involved?
The four deputies involved in the incident have been placed on administrative leave pending the outcome of the Michigan State Police’s independent investigation into the shooting.
What is the status of the investigation?
The Michigan State Police is conducting an independent investigation into the incident. The Washtenaw County Sheriff’s Office has stated its commitment to transparency and will release all findings from the investigation once completed.
Why was the dashcam footage released?
The release of the dashcam footage is intended to provide transparency regarding the sequence of events and to maintain public trust. It is part of the Sheriff’s Office’s commitment to accountability and openness in the investigation process.
Key Features of the Incident
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Incident Date | January 6, 2026 |
| Location | Ypsilanti, Michigan |
| Involved Parties | Washtenaw County Sheriff’s deputies and a 35-year-old male driver from St. Clair County |
| Initial Report | Driver was armed with a shotgun |
| Investigation Outcome | No firearm found in the vehicle |
| Deputies’ Status | Placed on administrative leave pending investigation |
| Investigation Authority | Michigan State Police |
| Dashcam Footage Release | Intended to provide transparency and maintain public trust |
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