Man Charged In Deadly Shooting At Oakland County Halloween Store: Prosecutor

MADISON HEIGHTS, MI — An Oak Park man has been charged in connection with a fatal shooting at a Halloween store last week, according to prosecutors.

The shooting happened last Friday outside the retail store located in the 32000 block of John R. near 14 Mile Road in Madison Heights, according to police.

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When officers arrived, police said they found Anthony Thompson III suffering from multiple gunshot wounds. He was taken to a nearby hospital where he died, according to police.

John Benson Jr., 21, was charged with first-degree murder and felony firearm in connection with the shooting.

Surveillance footage shows Benson leaving the crowded Halloween store with a woman and two small children, just as Thompson was walking into the store with several family members as well, according to prosecutors.

The two men exchanged words before Benson pulled out a handgun and shot Thompson, according to prosecutors.

Benson chased a wounded Thompson into the store where he stood over him and shot him several more times, according to prosecutors.

Prosecutors said it was Benson who called 911 and told officials that he believed Thompson had a gun and was going to shoot him.

Police did not find a gun on Thompson, according to prosecutors.

Prosecutors said the Halloween store was crowded with shoppers, including parents and small children.

"Anthony Thompson was shot several times and killed. His murder took place in a store filled with children picking out costumes the day before Halloween. It's a miracle that no one else was injured," Oakland County Prosecutor Karen McDonald said. "Our office intends to vigorously prosecute this defendant. We will also continue working to prevent this type of violent crime because everyone has a right to be safe from gun violence."