PONTIAC, Mich. – A dispute over spitting in a sink led to the tragic death of a Pontiac man earlier this week, as two suspects allegedly shot and killed him, according to the Oakland County Sheriff’s Office.
The victim, 33-year-old Cornelius James Jones, was fatally shot multiple times in an apartment building on Wednesday. Deputies responded to a call for shots fired and found Jones unconscious in his apartment. He was rushed to the hospital but succumbed to his injuries shortly after.
Witnesses told investigators that an argument ensued between Jones and one of the suspects, escalating when the suspect was asked to leave for spitting in the sink. The situation quickly turned deadly with gunfire, and the two suspects fled the scene.
Law enforcement officers were quickly on their tail and managed to apprehend one suspect immediately. The other suspect, however, attempted to evade authorities and even discarded the firearm during a foot chase. Thanks to the efforts of a canine unit, the discarded weapon and a lost boot belonging to the suspect were found.
Oakland County Sheriff Michael Bouchard expressed disbelief at the senseless nature of the crime, calling for a severe penalty for those responsible. The swift and effective response of the deputies was lauded in catching the armed suspect as he attempted to escape under the cover of darkness.
The two suspects are currently in custody at the Oakland County Jail, and pending charges could see them in court soon. The tragic incident serves as a reminder of the consequences that can arise from even the most seemingly trivial disputes.