GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. -- Grand Rapids Police Chief Eric Winstrom says he hopes that charges filed against the suspect in Semaj James' homicide will provide some healing for the victim's family.
Winstrom credits solid detective work for 30-year-old Deshun Lewis being arrested on charges of open murder and felony firearm. James, also 30, was gunned down around 1 a.m. on June 13 on Cass Avenue near Garden Street. For better reference, that is east of Jefferson Avenue and south of Hall Street.
Investigators believe the shooting stemmed from an altercation.
He is in custody at the Kent County Correctional Facility.
“I’m grateful to our outstanding detectives for their work on this case,” Eric Winstrom. “I know his loss will always be deeply felt, but I hope this arrest brings Semaj’s loved ones answers to provide some measure of healing.”
Here is some background on the case from last month's GRPD news releases:
June 13, 2025
1:40 p.m.
Victim Identified in June 13 Homicide
UPDATE – Following an autopsy, the Kent County Medical Examiner has ruled the death in the below incident to be a homicide. The victim has been identified as Semaj James, aged 30.
The investigation is ongoing.
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June 13, 2025
GRPD Investigating a Fatal Shooting on the City’s Southeast Side
GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. – At approximately 1:00 a.m., officers were called to the 1400 block of Cass Ave SE. An adult male victim was located inside a residence. He was pronounced dead at the scene.
The investigation by the Major Case Team is ongoing. Anyone with information is asked to contact the Grand Rapids Police Department or Silent Observer. Detectives can be reached at (616) 456-3380 or tips can be sent safely and anonymously through Silent Observer.
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