WYOMING, Mich. — The suspect in the shooting of a Wyoming Police Officer who was also shot during the incident was taken off life support Saturday.
The suspect is 31-year-old Alan James of Wyoming.
A press release was issued Saturday by the family’s attorney, saying, “Mr. James has undergone a number of surgeries, and it is the opinion of his treating physicians that there is nothing more that can be done.
The release also touched on a possible explanation for James’ behavior that lead to him firing at police, stating, “We believe that it was this medication that caused Alan to hallucinate, which led to the tragic events of January 29. ”
Police responded to what began as a domestic dispute on January 29th of this year. James was in the midst of a fight with a woman when officers arrived, and refused to surrender into their custody quietly- he drew a weapon and opened fire, wounding Wyoming PD Officer Frank Hartuniewicz, before making a run for it.
Hartuniewicz, a 15-year veteran, was treated and released from the hospital after the shooting and continues to recover at home, police said.
FOX 17 ran a criminal background check on James. In 2008 he was arrested and pleaded guilty to Operating While Intoxicated. In 2009 he was arrested for felony assault after stabbing his wife in the neck, but wound up pleading guilty to a misdemeanor count of assault.
The full release provided by Alan Jame’s family is available below:
In regards to: Alan James
It is with sadness that the family of Alan James has decided to remove his life support at this time. Mr. James has undergone a number of surgeries, and it is the opinion of his treating physicians that there is nothing more that can be done. Those who knew Alan know that his behavior in the time preceding the shooting was completely out of character for him, and that he had been actively seeking help for serious difficulties caused by a combination of medication that clearly should not have been prescribed in conjunction with each other. We believe that it was this medication that caused Alan to hallucinate, which led to the tragic events of January 29.
We will continue to investigate the cause of his unusual behavior and the events of that day, and look forward to continuing working with law enforcement to that end.
Alan is a loving father, husband, son, and friend, and he will be missed.
Alan’s family would ask that public and the media respect their wish for privacy during this difficult time.
Any questions can be directed to my office.
Thank you for your attention in this matter.
-Jason Ronning
2/7/15
