Southfield, MI: 24-Year-Old Marcus Stribling Charged with Murder After Shooting 8-Year-Old Sister Bailei Singleton Over Argument, Facing Life in Prison
The community of Southfield, a northwest suburb of Detroit, is reeling in shock and grief following the tragic and senseless shooting of 8-year-old Bailei Singleton by her older brother, Marcus Stribling. The shooting, which occurred in the family’s home, has left a deep wound in the hearts of all who knew the young girl, while also raising concerns over the escalating violence within families.
The Incident
According to law enforcement officials, the horrific event unfolded on April 16, 2025, when 24-year-old Stribling allegedly shot his 8-year-old sister in the head following a verbal disagreement. Authorities reported that Stribling became angered after Bailei “talked back” to him during a conversation in their living room.
The family members who witnessed the incident were said to be in complete shock as Stribling shot Bailei in cold blood, before attempting to cover up his actions. After the shooting, Stribling reportedly told responding officers that the incident was a result of a robbery gone wrong, but investigators quickly refuted his story. Two witnesses contradicted his claims, and it was discovered that Stribling had attempted to hide evidence that might have linked him directly to the crime.
The Tragic Loss
Bailei was immediately rushed to a nearby hospital after the shooting but, despite the efforts of medical staff, she succumbed to her injuries. The loss has been devastating for the Singleton family, with many expressing disbelief over such a violent act taking place in their own home.
Southfield Police Chief Elvin Barren called the actions of Marcus Stribling “heinous” and “disturbing,” expressing the shock that the community is experiencing in the wake of the shooting.
A Statement of Condemnation
In response to the murder, Prosecutor Karen McDonald issued a statement condemning the tragedy. She said, “Bailei Singleton should still be here with us today. Her murder was a tragedy for her family. It’s unconscionable that anyone, let alone an 8-year-old child, could be murdered by a relative and in their own home over the slightest of disagreements.”
McDonald emphasized that the circumstances surrounding the death of Bailei reflect a deep problem of violence that must be addressed in society. She further expressed her commitment to ensuring that justice is served and that Stribling will be held accountable for his actions.
Charges and Legal Consequences
Marcus Stribling, who is currently in custody, faces serious charges, including first-degree murder and other related offenses. If convicted, he could face a maximum sentence of life in prison without the possibility of parole. The case is currently being processed, and Stribling’s trial is expected to be closely followed by both local and national media.
As investigators continue to piece together the details of the incident, Southfield residents and the broader community are left grappling with the loss of a young girl whose life was tragically cut short by her own family member.
Community Reactions
The shooting has sparked widespread discussions about the rising rates of domestic violence and the impact it has on children and families. Local community leaders, counselors, and educators have called for increased support systems to prevent similar tragedies in the future. There has been an outpouring of sympathy for the Singleton family, and community groups are organizing memorials in Bailei’s honor, hoping to turn this heartbreaking loss into a message of hope and unity for families in need.
As the case continues to unfold, many are left asking how a disagreement could escalate into such a devastating act of violence, and what can be done to prevent further tragedies in homes where children should feel safe.