Grand Rapids Police Officer Cleared in Fatal Shooting of Da'Quain Johnson

City leaders acknowledge community's grief while defending officer's actions under high-stress conditions.

Apr. 2, 2026 at 9:19pm

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An extreme close-up photograph of a police badge or handcuff, lit by a harsh, direct camera flash against a pitch-black background, conveying the serious, investigative nature of this incident.A stark, gritty image captures the tension and high-stakes nature of policing, as the community grapples with a controversial shooting decision.Grand Rapids Today

Grand Rapids city leaders issued statements following a decision by Kent County Prosecutor Chris Becker that ruled a police officer was justified in the February 18 fatal shooting of 32-year-old Da'Quain Johnson. While the independent criminal investigation has concluded, officials say they remain mindful of the family's grief and will conduct internal reviews to ensure all department policies were followed.

Why it matters

The shooting of Da'Quain Johnson was controversial, as initial police video did not show a gun, raising questions about the justification for the use of deadly force. This decision by the prosecutor has reignited debates around police accountability, transparency, and the appropriate use of force, especially in communities of color.

The details

According to authorities, Johnson fled from police on a bicycle after they were told he might have a gun. After exiting the bike and falling to the ground, a police dog latched onto Johnson. As officers approached, they said Johnson reached for a gun, leading one officer to shoot him. A loaded gun was later found on the ground near Johnson. The prosecutor determined the officer's actions were justified, but the city will now conduct internal reviews to ensure all policies were followed.

  • The shooting occurred on February 18, 2026.
  • The prosecutor's decision clearing the officer was announced on April 2, 2026.

The players

Chris Becker

The Kent County Prosecutor who ruled the officer's actions were justified in the shooting of Da'Quain Johnson.

Joe Trigg

The Grand Rapids Interim Police Chief who acknowledged the family's grief while defending the professionalism of his officers.

David LaGrand

The Grand Rapids Mayor who recognized the community's pain but respected the independence of the investigation.

Mark Washington

The Grand Rapids City Manager who said the city's internal reviews would continue despite the prosecutor's decision.

Da'Quain Johnson

The 32-year-old man who was fatally shot by a Grand Rapids police officer during a confrontation.

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What they’re saying

“While this decision concludes the independent criminal investigation by the Michigan State Police, we remain mindful that a family is mourning and our community is still processing a very difficult event.”

— Joe Trigg, Grand Rapids Interim Police Chief

“I respect the independence of the Prosecutor's Office and the Michigan State Police investigation, but I also recognize that this news is deeply painful for many in our community.”

— David LaGrand, Grand Rapids Mayor

“I understand this news evokes strong emotions, especially for those that have been directly impacted by this incident. There are some in the community who are grieving Mr. Johnson's death and the investigative outcome.”

— Mark Washington, Grand Rapids City Manager

What’s next

The Grand Rapids Police Department and the Office of Oversight and Public Accountability (OPA) will conduct their own administrative reviews to ensure all department policies were upheld during the incident.

The takeaway

This case highlights the ongoing tensions between law enforcement and communities of color, as well as the challenges police face in making split-second decisions under high-stress conditions. While the prosecutor found the officer's actions justified, the city's commitment to transparency and accountability will be crucial in rebuilding trust with residents.