In the winter chill of February 2020, a Saginaw, Michigan man's life was tragically cut short in a violent encounter that also claimed the life of his son. Bruce Banks, a 68-year-old male, passed away on February 19, 2020, from injuries he sustained in a shooting the previous day. The incident, which unfolded in Buena Vista Township, is being investigated as a double homicide.
On the evening of February 18, 2020, authorities were called to a residence on South 23rd Street where they
discovered two victims. Bruce Banks's son, 39-year-old Deonte Jackson, was found deceased at the scene. Bruce Banks was critically injured and transported to a local hospital, where he succumbed to his wounds the following day. He was a beloved member of his community, known by many as the 'Bar-B-Que Man' for his love of cooking and sharing food with others. He was a faithful member and usher at Word of Faith International Ministries and was remembered for his ever-present smile.
The investigation into the double homicide was taken up by the Michigan State Police-Saginaw Major Case Team and the Buena Vista Township Police. Investigators found footprints in the snow leading away from the crime scene to a nearby street, suggesting the assailant or assailants fled in a vehicle. Despite their efforts, the case remains unsolved, and no arrests have been made in connection with the deaths of Bruce Banks and his son. Authorities have appealed to the public for assistance, with Crime Stoppers offering a cash reward for any information that leads to the arrest of those responsible for this tragic loss of life. The community continues to mourn the father and son, hoping that justice will one day be served.
