Man Shot Dead During Robbery in Oakland County

Suspect arrested 3 hours after fatal shooting in Pontiac

Apr. 13, 2026 at 5:24pm

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An extreme close-up photograph of a single spent shell casing on a dark concrete surface, capturing the stark, gritty aftermath of a violent crime.A single spent shell casing left behind at the scene of a fatal robbery-related shooting exposes the grim aftermath of violence in this Oakland County community.Pontiac Today

A 28-year-old man was shot and killed during a robbery in Pontiac, Michigan on Saturday afternoon. Police arrested a 36-year-old suspect several hours after the incident, which they believe involved the two men knowing each other.

Why it matters

Violent crimes like this fatal shooting in a residential neighborhood raise concerns about public safety and the need for effective law enforcement response and crime prevention measures in Oakland County communities.

The details

Officers responded to a home on Crystal Lake Drive in Pontiac at 2:15 pm on Saturday and found Kevonte Javon Smith shot dead in the driveway. Witnesses said the shooter fled the scene. Police used K9 units and drones to search the area, quickly locating the gun and clothing believed to belong to the suspect. They arrested a 36-year-old Pontiac man about 3 hours after the shooting, which they believe occurred during a robbery between the two men who knew each other.

  • The shooting happened at 2:15 pm on Saturday, April 12, 2026.
  • Police arrested the 36-year-old suspect about 3 hours after the shooting.

The players

Kevonte Javon Smith

A 28-year-old man who was shot and killed during the robbery.

36-year-old Pontiac man

The suspect who was arrested by police in connection with the fatal shooting.

Oakland County Sheriff Michael Bouchard

The sheriff who expressed sadness over the loss of life and said the suspect will be held accountable.

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What they’re saying

“It is so sad to see when lives are lost for absolutely no reason. We look forward to this individual being held to account for the suspected violent homicide.”

— Oakland County Sheriff Michael Bouchard

What’s next

Investigators will continue their work to determine the full details and motive behind the fatal shooting, and the suspect will face charges in court.

The takeaway

This tragic incident underscores the need for continued efforts to address violent crime and improve public safety in Oakland County neighborhoods.