Oak Park man charged with murder after Spirit Halloween killing

John Lashawn Benson, a 21-year-old from Oak Park, has been charged with first-degree murder in connection with a fatal shooting at a Spirit Halloween store in Madison Heights. The incident occurred on October 30 near the intersection of John R. Road and 13 Mile Road. Benson also faces a felony firearm charge.

Police say the trouble started near the main entrance of the store around 2 p.m. Benson and Anthony Thompson, 21, of Detroit, were arguing when Benson allegedly pulled out a gun. He shot Thompson several times. Officers found Thompson with multiple gunshot wounds and transported him to a local hospital. He died from his injuries. No bystanders were hurt, and police recovered a 9mm handgun at the scene.

Benson’s wife, Alanna, told reporters the shooting was an act of self-defense. She said the couple was leaving the store with their three children when a man she identified as a known associate confronted them. According to Alanna, Thompson reached into Benson’s pocket, causing him to draw his weapon. She noted that Benson is a concealed pistol licensee. “He defended me, himself, and his kids,” Alanna said. She added that if he had not fired, the crowd of onlookers might have overwhelmed him.

Police report that Benson sustained injuries during his arrest after Thompson’s family members assaulted him. The Oakland County Prosecutor’s Office reviewed the case before filing the charges. Benson was arraigned in court on November 2. The judge denied his request for bond.

Benson is scheduled to return to court on November 18 for his next hearing.