In the city of Flint, Michigan, a 27-year-old Black / African American man named Deantwan Morrice Butler, known to his loved ones as 'Pooh Bear,' was a familiar face. A lifelong resident of the city, he was an active member of the Triumph Church-Flint Campus and had attended Flint Southwestern Academy. His passions were simple and profound: he loved to immerse himself in novels and treasured the time he spent surrounded by his family and friends.
But on a cold Sunday, January 22, 2017, this cherished life was tragically cut short. On the north side of Flint, Deantwan was shot. He was rushed to Hurley Medical Center, but his injuries were too severe, and he was pronounced dead.
The news of his violent death sent ripples of grief and shock through his community. His family, including his parents Marcus Brown Sr. and Yolonda Brown, were left to mourn the sudden and senseless loss of a son, brother, and friend. Funeral services were held the following Saturday at his beloved church, and he was laid to rest at Gracelawn Community Cemetery. The community and his family held onto the hope that justice would be served for Deantwan.
Years have passed since Deantwan 'Pooh Bear' Butler's life was taken, but the questions surrounding his death remain unanswered. The investigation into his murder is still open, yet no arrests have been made, and no suspects have been publicly identified. His case stands as a painful and unsolved crime, a stark reminder of the violence that has plagued the city. For his family and all who knew him, the wait for answers and for justice continues, a lingering sorrow in the heart of their community.
