Civil-rights attorney Ben Crump to address Da'Quain Johnson's killing by Grand Rapids police

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Nationally known civil-rights attorney Ben Crump and Detroit attorney Ven Johnson will hold a press conference to address the recent killing of Da'Quain Johnson by Grand Rapids police. Angelica Johnson, whose son was killed, will also attend. The attorneys also represent the family of Patrick Lyoya, who was fatally shot by a Grand Rapids police officer in 2022, resulting in a mistrial.

Why it matters

This case is part of a broader pattern of alleged unnecessary use of deadly force by the Grand Rapids Police Department, raising concerns about police accountability and racial justice in the community.

The details

During the confrontation, 32-year-old Da'Quain Johnson was shot in the back while scuffling with police, who had tried to stop him on his bicycle after an officer reported he appeared to be armed. Johnson led police on a pursuit before slipping on ice and falling. A K-9 officer then released a dog, and as police struggled to handcuff Johnson, the K-9 officer fired three shots, claiming Johnson had pointed a gun at his face. Police found a pistol at the scene, and Johnson died at a hospital.

• On February 18, 2026, the incident involving Da'Quain Johnson occurred.
• On March 20, 2026, Ben Crump and Ven Johnson will hold a press conference to address the killing.

What they’re saying

What’s next

The Kent County Prosecutor's Office continues to review the state police findings in Da'Quain Johnson's shooting, and the City of Grand Rapids is reviewing its K-9 policies after the incident.