Prosecutor Kym Worthy has charged Joseph Michael Slocum, Jr., 23, of Wayne, in connection with the fatal shooting of Veronica Crain 19, of Detroit. Ms. Crain was the ex-girlfriend of the defendant.

On February 16, 2024, at approximately 9:22 p.m., Canton police officers were dispatched to a hotel in the 5700 block of North Haggerty Road for a reported shooting. Upon their arrival, officers located the victim behind the front desk, suffering from a gunshot wound to the head. Medics arrived on the scene and pronounced the victim deceased.

It is alleged that Defendant Slocum entered the hotel and produced and fired a handgun, fatally wounding Ms. Crain, before fleeing the scene. At approximately 9:43 p.m., Canton police officers were dispatched to Southbound I-275 and Ford Road for a reported car accident. Upon their arrival, officers observed Defendant Slocum lying in the road suffering from multiple injuries. Medics arrived on the scene and transported the defendant to a local hospital for treatment.

Joseph Michael Slocum, Jr. has been charged with First-Degree Murder and Felony Firearm.*

"I say this often: The most dangerous time for a domestic violence victim is when they are trying to leave the relationship. Horrifyingly, this case is a textbook example. We will vigorously seek justice for Veronica and her family. And please, if you or someone you know is a victim of domestic violence, there are many people and agencies who stand by to help you," said Prosecutor Kym Worthy.

He was arraigned and remanded to jail this afternoon in 35^th District Court before Judge James Plakas. The Probable Cause Conference is scheduled for May 3, 2024, at 9:30 a.m., before Judge Michael Gerou. Please request a photograph of the defendant from the Canton Police Department.

*The charges are allegations and defendants are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.

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