HASTINGS, Mich. (WOOD) — The Michigan State Police trooper who shot a Middleville man in April has been cleared of any wrongdoing in the incident.
A Barry County prosecutor’s office release said evidence showed Trooper David Williams was acting in self-defense and in the defense of another when he shot Middleville-area man Ryan Miller.
It happened on April 2 in the parking lot at Thornapple Valley Church on M-43, near Hastings. Police were attempting to arrest Miller on felony warrants and received a tip he would be at the church. Upon arrival, police said Miller tried to get away but Williams blocked him from exiting the lot.
At that point, prosecutors say Miller got out of his vehicle and pulled out what appeared to be a black handgun from his coat after ignoring Williams’ commands to get on the ground. Prosecutors said Miller continued to point the weapon, which was later found to be a BB gun, at Williams which ultimately led to him getting shot in the shoulder and foot.
Williams and Miller’s girlfriend, who was in his vehicle at the time of the incident, were unharmed. However, his girlfriend’s dog was killed.
Miller has since been arraigned on charges unrelated to the shooting and is being charged with several offenses in connection to the shooting. He is facing charges of carrying a weapon with unlawful intent, three counts of felony firearm, felonious assault, resisting and obstructing a police officer, and cruelty to animals causing death.
A probable cause hearing has been scheduled for June 6.