Tragedy in Eastpointe: 18-Year-Old Steven Gardin Jr. Killed in Double Homicide Outside Foot Locker, Brother of Suspect Faces Charges
EASTPOINTE, Mich. — A devastating shooting outside a Foot Locker store on Eight Mile Road in Eastpointe has left two young men dead and another injured, sending shockwaves through the local community and across state lines. Among the deceased is 18-year-old Steven Gardin Jr., who had recently traveled from North Carolina to reconnect with family in Detroit. The young man’s life was tragically cut short just weeks before his 19th birthday.
The incident occurred around 2:50 p.m. on Saturday, May 3, 2025, during what police describe as a confrontation between two known groups. Macomb County Prosecutor Pete Lucido revealed that the dispute quickly turned violent when an argument escalated into a physical fight in the store’s parking lot.
A Deadly Chain of Events
According to investigators, Dejuan Jermaine Taylor, 21, of Detroit, and his 19-year-old sister were involved in the altercation. During the fight, Taylor was reportedly tackled to the ground by members of the opposing group, one of whom was allegedly armed. In response, Taylor’s sister retrieved a firearm and opened fire, striking multiple individuals.
Steven Gardin Jr., affectionately known as “Little Steve,” was fatally shot. Another relative, a 24-year-old man identified by family as “Poppy,” was wounded but is expected to recover. A third victim, who has not yet been named publicly, was also killed during the shooting.
Dejuan Taylor was himself injured in the chaos but survived. In a shocking twist, authorities say that after the shooting, Taylor took a firearm and magazines from one of the victims—possibly in an attempt to conceal evidence. He was later charged with tampering with evidence, larceny of a firearm, carrying a concealed weapon, and larceny under $200.
His sister, who police say fired the fatal shots, turned herself in on Monday, May 5. Her name has not yet been released, pending formal arraignment.
Victim Remembered as Bright, Loving Young Man
Steven Gardin Jr. had recently come to Detroit from North Carolina to spend time with his father and discuss potentially relocating to the city. His family described him as kind-hearted, ambitious, and deeply loved by those around him.
“This was supposed to be a fresh start for Steven,” said a family spokesperson. “He had plans, dreams—and now we’re planning his funeral instead of his future.”
More than 1,000 mourners are expected at Steven’s memorial service, with community members rallying around the grieving family. A GoFundMe page has been launched to help cover burial expenses and support the Gardin family during this unimaginable time.
Community Demands Accountability
As the investigation unfolds, community leaders are calling for justice and peace. The senseless nature of the violence—arising from a personal dispute—has raised renewed concerns about youth violence and access to firearms.
“This was an argument that ended in bullets,” said one local pastor. “We cannot let anger and weapons decide the fate of our young people.”
Authorities continue to gather evidence and review surveillance footage from the scene. Anyone with information related to the shooting is urged to contact Eastpointe Police or submit tips anonymously via Crime Stoppers.
As the case makes its way through the courts, the Gardin family—and an entire community—grapples with a painful loss that no family should ever have to endure.