GARDEN CITY, Mich. – A 35-year-old man facing the potential of life in prison has pleaded no contest to manslaughter in the fatal shooting of Detroit police Sgt. Elaine Williams.
Eddie Ray-Jr. Johnson was initially charged with first-degree murder and felony firearm, but was offered a plea reduction Friday, May 10, that reduced the charge to manslaughter and dismissed the felony firearm charge.
Johnson is accused of killing Williams in their home in Garden City, located on Belton Street, near the intersection of Inkster and Cherry Hill roads.
According to authorities, the couple went out with their neighbors to a bar in June 2019. When they returned, the neighbors reported they heard the couple arguing before hearing gunshots and seeing Johnson exit the home with a gunshot wound.
Update: Garden City man charged in fatal shooting of Detroit police sergeant
Williams reportedly had been shot in the head and shoulder. She was dead when first responders arrived.
Police said the gun used in the shooting was Williams’ service weapon.
Both Williams and Johnson’s blood alcohol concentration after the shooting showed that they were intoxicated at the time.
While being treated for his injuries at a Garden City hospital, Johnson reportedly told police he shot Williams during a struggle after she shot him.
Related: Neighbor describes Garden City shooting that left off-duty Detroit police officer dead
Johnson’s plea included a sentence agreement of three years probation. Any violation will result in a minimum of 57 months in prison, up to 15 years. He will officially be sentenced June 14.
