Trooper Shot in Detroit Before Firing Back; Attorney General Finds No Wrongdoing

The Michigan Attorney General has concluded its review of the May 16, 2025, officer-involved shooting that left 41-year-old Stephen Wangara-Mason of Detroit dead.

The Department determined the Michigan State Police trooper acted in self-defense and defense of others and will not face charges. New video obtained exclusively by MDN captures the moments where’s trooper was shot and when he returned fire.

According to the findings, the trooper stopped Mason’s vehicle after observing it speeding southbound on M-10 in Detroit and learning the truck was uninsured. Both exited the freeway at Wyoming Avenue and came to a stop along the service drive. Mason, still seated in his vehicle, admitted his insurance had lapsed but handed over his registration.

When the paper drifted beneath the vehicle, Mason did not exit to retrieve it, telling the trooper he didn’t need it.

The trooper later instructed Mason to step out.

As Mason exited, a concealed revolver fell from his clothing. The trooper asked, “What are you reaching for?” as the gun hit the ground. Mason immediately lunged for the weapon, sparking a struggle between the two men in the roadway. During the fight, Mason regained control of the revolver and shot the trooper three times—twice in the chest and once in the clavicle. The ballistic vest stopped two rounds, but the third required surgical removal.

Despite his wounds, the trooper fought back, drew his service pistol, and fired three shots, fatally striking Mason.

The Detroit Police Homicide Task Force and MSP investigators handled the case before referring it to the Attorney General’s Office, which reviewed all reports, body-camera and dashcam footage, witness statements, and the medical examiner’s findings.

Prosecutors concluded the trooper’s actions were lawful and consistent with self-defense under Michigan law.