In the early morning hours of February 1, 2026, the life of 21-year-old Demarius Porter was tragically cut short in Benton Harbor, Michigan. Responding to reports of gunfire, officers from the Benton Harbor Department of Public Safety initially canvassed the 600 block of Columbus Avenue. Their search led them to discover the gravely injured young man.
Investigators later determined that the actual scene of the shooting was in the 700 block of Lavette Street.
Emergency medical services treated Porter at the scene before he was transported by ambulance to Corewell Health in St. Joseph. Despite the efforts of medical personnel, he succumbed to his injuries at the hospital. An autopsy performed at Western Michigan University's Homer Stryker M.D. School of Medicine confirmed that fatal gunshot wounds were the cause of his death.
As of now, the investigation into Demarius Porter's death is ongoing, with multiple law enforcement agencies assisting the Benton Harbor Department of Public Safety. These include the FBI Violent Crime Task Force, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Berrien County Sheriff's Office, the Benton Charter Township Police Department, the St. Joseph Public Safety Department, and the Michigan State Police. Authorities have not yet identified any suspects, and no arrests have been made in connection with the shooting. Law enforcement has assured the community that they do not believe there is an ongoing threat to the public and will maintain a visible presence in the area as they continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding Porter's death. Anyone with information is being urged to come forward and contact the lead detective or submit an anonymous tip through Crime Stoppers.
