Detroit Man Pleads Guilty in Teen's Killing Near Rec Center

Terrell Epel Youngblood faces sentencing in April for shooting death near Adam Butzel Recreation Center.

Mar. 12, 2026 at 3:03pm

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Terrell Epel Youngblood, 21, has pleaded guilty to second-degree murder and other charges in the August shooting death of a teenage boy near the Adam Butzel Recreational Center in Detroit. Youngblood is scheduled to be sentenced on April 3.

Why it matters

This case highlights ongoing gun violence and youth crime issues in Detroit, where community centers and public spaces have sometimes become the sites of tragic incidents. The guilty plea brings some closure, but the sentencing will determine the consequences for the perpetrator.

The details

According to authorities, on August 23, Detroit police responded to a shooting near the 14800 block of Monte Vista Street and found a teenage victim with a gunshot wound to the head near the Adam Butzel Recreational Center. The victim was rushed to a hospital but died from his injuries. Investigators allege that Youngblood fired multiple shots and then fled the scene. He was arrested on October 31 and arraigned on November 3.

  • On August 23, police responded to the shooting near the rec center.
  • On October 31, Youngblood was arrested.
  • On November 3, Youngblood was arraigned.
  • On March 12, Youngblood pleaded guilty.
  • On April 3, Youngblood is scheduled to be sentenced.

The players

Terrell Epel Youngblood

A 21-year-old Detroit resident who pleaded guilty to second-degree murder and other charges in the shooting death of a teenage boy near the Adam Butzel Recreational Center.

Wayne County Prosecutor's Office

The office that charged Youngblood and is overseeing the prosecution of the case.

Detroit Police Chief Todd Bettison

The police chief who commented on the tragedy of a parent having to bury their child.

Wayne County Prosecutor Kym Worthy

The county prosecutor who called the killing a "tragedy".

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What they’re saying

“No parent should have to bury their child.”

— Todd Bettison, Detroit Police Chief (Wayne County Prosecutor's Office)

“This is a tragedy.”

— Kym Worthy, Wayne County Prosecutor (Wayne County Prosecutor's Office)

What’s next

The judge will determine Youngblood's sentence at the hearing on April 3.

The takeaway

This case underscores the ongoing challenges Detroit faces with gun violence and youth crime, even in public spaces meant to serve the community. The guilty plea provides some accountability, but the ultimate sentencing will be crucial in addressing these complex issues.