LANSING, Mich –  Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel today filed charges against Michigan State Police Detective Sergeant Brian Keely, 50, of Grand Rapids, in connection with the death of Samuel Sterling, 25, of Kentwood. The Michigan State Police referred the matter to the Department of Attorney General for review on May 10, 2024.

Keely faces charges of one count of second-degree murder, a life offense, and one count of involuntary manslaughter, a felony carrying a maximum sentence of 15 years.

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In a video announcing the charges, Nessel stated that a comprehensive review of the evidence led the Department to believe that “Detective Sergeant Keely’s actions that day were legally, grossly negligent and created a very high risk of death or great bodily harm, which could have otherwise been prevented.”

The incident occurred shortly before noon on April 17, 2024. D/Sgt. Keely, part of the Michigan State Police Sixth District Fugitive Task Force, was attempting to take Sterling into custody when Sterling fled on foot. Multiple MSP troopers and local law enforcement officers pursued Sterling by vehicle and on foot. Keely, driving an unmarked vehicle, turned and struck Sterling in a fast-food restaurant parking lot. Sterling was transported to the University of Michigan Metro Health Hospital, where he later died from his injuries.

“Public integrity is a top priority for my Department, and we remain committed to providing a thorough and just review and resolution in each case brought before us,” said Nessel.

Keely’s arraignment will take place in the 62-B District Court in Kentwood, though a date has not yet been scheduled.