Ex-Michigan Officer Cleared of Charges After Claiming 'Safety' Defense For Mowing Down And Killing Unarmed Black Man With His Patrol Car

A federal judge has dismissed murder charges against Brian William Keely, a former Michigan state trooper, who fatally struck unarmed Black man Samuel Sterling with his patrol car during a pursuit. This incident occurred on April 17, 2024, when a federal task force attempted to arrest Sterling at a gas station, where he was airing his tires. As Sterling fled towards a Burger King, Keely followed in an unmarked SUV. Surveillance footage captured the moment Keely drove on the sidewalk, colliding with Sterling and pinning him against the restaurant. Sterling was heard pleading, “I’ve got no gun.”Chief Judge Hala Y. Jarbou dismissed Keely's case, citing the “supremacy clause,” which afforded him immunity due to federal task force affiliation. Former officers testified in support of Keely, maintaining he acted to prevent Sterling from entering the restaurant. Although the Attorney General expressed disappointment and is contemplating an appeal, a civil lawsuit against Keely persists, accusing him of violating Sterling’s constitutional rights.