Michael Powers, 42, Identified as Victim in Kalamazoo Shooting; Manhunt Underway for Suspect Anthony Thomas
KALAMAZOO, MI – The Kalamazoo Department of Public Safety (KDPS) has officially identified the victim of a deadly shooting that unfolded in the early hours of Wednesday, May 28, 2025, as 42-year-old Michael Richard Powers, a longtime resident of Kalamazoo. The fatal incident occurred just after 1:30 a.m. near the intersection of Riverview Drive and East Paterson Street, sending shockwaves through a quiet residential neighborhood and prompting an immediate and robust response from law enforcement.
According to KDPS officials, officers were dispatched to the scene following reports of gunfire. Upon arrival, first responders discovered Powers suffering from multiple gunshot wounds. Despite life-saving efforts by emergency medical personnel, Powers was pronounced dead at the scene. His death marks yet another tragic act of violence in the city, which has seen a recent uptick in gun-related crimes.
KDPS launched an intensive investigation in the hours following the shooting. With the aid of surveillance footage, community tips, and forensic evidence collected from the scene, investigators quickly honed in on a suspect. By the afternoon of May 29, KDPS had identified 28-year-old Anthony Shawn-Tyrone Thomas as the individual responsible for the fatal shooting. Authorities have not yet revealed a specific motive behind the killing but did confirm that Thomas and Powers were acquainted.
“This was not a random act of violence,” said KDPS Chief Vernon Coakley in a press briefing Thursday morning. “We believe Mr. Thomas deliberately targeted Mr. Powers, and we are actively working to understand the full circumstances that led to this senseless act. Our hearts go out to the family of Mr. Powers as they grieve this sudden and tragic loss.”
KDPS has issued an arrest warrant for Thomas, who is currently at large. He is considered armed and dangerous, and authorities are urging the public not to approach him. Instead, anyone with information about Thomas’ whereabouts is asked to call KDPS or contact Silent Observer anonymously.
As of Friday morning, KDPS investigators continued to process evidence and conduct interviews with potential witnesses. Detectives have canvassed the neighborhood and are working with local businesses and residents to review any additional surveillance video from the area.
Michael Powers, described by family members as a kind-hearted man who “would give you the shirt off his back,” leaves behind two children and a grieving community. Friends and relatives have already begun organizing a candlelight vigil in his memory, which will be held this weekend at the very intersection where his life was cut short.
“He didn’t deserve this,” said Tamara Jenkins, a childhood friend of Powers who spoke to local reporters. “Mike was trying to get his life on track. He loved his kids, and he was working hard every day. This is devastating.”
Community leaders and anti-violence advocates are also weighing in on the tragedy, calling for continued efforts to address gun violence and support at-risk individuals through community outreach, education, and conflict resolution.
“We cannot allow ourselves to become desensitized to the lives lost,” said Pastor Elijah Benton, a vocal advocate for public safety and youth outreach in Kalamazoo. “Each name is a soul, a story, a family changed forever. We must do more.”
KDPS is urging anyone who may have been in the area at the time of the shooting or who may have information related to the case to step forward. “Even the smallest detail could be critical in helping us bring justice to Mr. Powers and his loved ones,” said Chief Coakley.
As the search for Anthony Thomas continues, the city remains on edge, grappling with the loss of another life and waiting for answers.
Anyone with information is urged to contact the Kalamazoo Department of Public Safety at (269) 337-8120 or to provide an anonymous tip through Silent Observer at (269) 343-2100.