In the early hours of a summer morning, a burst of gunfire shattered the peace at Broome Park in Flint, Michigan, leaving a scene of chaos and tragedy. Among the victims of this senseless act of violence on August 9, 2021, was Alyssa Rose McMahon, an 18-year-old Caucasian female. She was a recent graduate of South Lyon High School, where she had been a cheerleader and a member of the track and field team.
At the time of her death, she was a student at Schoolcraft College.
Alyssa, along with a group of friends, was at a social gathering in the park when the shooting occurred at approximately 12:40 a.m. The preliminary investigation indicated that a shooter opened fire into the crowd. In the aftermath, six people were found with gunshot wounds. Alyssa and 19-year-old Elvin 'Dubie' Hollinger II succumbed to their injuries, while four other individuals were left in serious to critical condition. Friends remember Alyssa as a vibrant and positive person who brought laughter and joy to those around her.
The investigation into the double homicide led to the arrest of a suspect. Breon Walters, who was 18 years old at the time of the incident, was taken into custody. He was subsequently arraigned on fifteen felony charges, including two counts of first-degree murder and multiple counts of assault with intent to murder. Authorities described the shooting as a random act.
As the legal proceedings against Walters began, the families of the victims were left to navigate their profound loss. The case has been moving through the court system, with preliminary hearings taking place. The community has mourned the loss of the two young lives, with friends and family remembering Alyssa for her bright and bubbly personality and the positive impact she had on those who knew her.
