Michigan Teen Faces Trial as an Adult in Alleged Shooting Death of Democratic Official

In a significant development, Ingham County Prosecutor John Dewane has announced charges against a Michigan teen, Lamar Kemp, concerning the tragic murder of 63-year-old Theodore "Ted" Lawson, which occurred on a Sunday afternoon, according to Michigan Live.

Lamar Kemp, 15, is now facing one count each of open murder, felony firearm, and carrying a concealed weapon, marking a somber milestone in this ongoing investigation.

The open murder charge signifies that a jury will ultimately determine whether first or second-degree murder charges are more appropriate once all relevant evidence and facts have been thoroughly established.

The incident unfolded as Theodore Lawson was discovered lying on the sidewalk along Jenison Avenue with a fatal gunshot wound, ultimately succumbing to his injuries.

Notably, Lawson had been engaged in canvassing activities in the area when this tragic incident occurred.

However, Ingham County Prosecutor John Dewane emphasized that there appears to be no discernible connection between Lawson's political actions and the motive behind his murder.

Dewane acknowledged an alarming trend in the region: youthful offenders have been found to illegally possess firearms and engage in fatal and non-fatal gun violence.

Despite the Michigan teen's age, the decision to charge him as an adult was reached following a thorough evaluation of the nature of the offense and Kemp's prior interactions with the court system.

Dewane reiterated the commitment to supporting community partnerships to reduce and prevent violent incidents within the community.

The Deceased Michigan Democrat Official

Ted Lawson was a well-respected figure in political circles and had actively participated in numerous Democratic campaigns both locally and statewide, per the Lansing State Journal.

He was a member of Ingham County's Board of Canvassers and served as the secretary for the Ingham County Democratic Party.

While authorities have refrained from disclosing details surrounding the shooting, Lansing City Council at-large candidate Trini Lopez Pehlivanoglu revealed that Lawson was canvassing for her when the tragic event transpired.

Lawson was a resident living just a few blocks away and had been knocking on doors in the area at the time.

John Dewane corroborated this account but emphasized that the murder does not appear linked to Lawson's political activities or beliefs.

Based on surveillance footage, the video captured when the Michigan teen approached Lawson and asked him for a dollar before fatally shooting him with a handgun.

Subsequently, the footage captured the gunshot sound and showed Kemp and two companions fleeing the scene.

These three individuals were observed on video at a Family Dollar store on North Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard just minutes before the shooting.

Lansing Democratic Leaders Mourn Ted Lawson's Tragic Passing

Democratic leaders in Lansing are deeply saddened by the tragic shooting death of Theodore "Ted" Lawson, who had played a pivotal role as the Ingham County Democratic Party secretary, WKAR noted.

Lawson's untimely loss has profoundly impacted the Lansing community, and he is remembered as an influential figure by those who worked alongside him.

Michigan Congresswoman Elissa Slotkin expressed her condolences via X (formerly known as Twitter), revealing that Ted Lawson had been canvassing at the time of the shooting.

She emphasized Lawson's remarkable commitment to the community, characterizing him as one of the most engaged community members she had ever encountered.

Ted Lawson routinely volunteered his time for projects to enhance the Mid-Michigan region.

The loss of Ted Lawson is a significant blow to the Lansing community, and Congresswoman Slotkin extended her heartfelt sympathies to Lawson's loved ones and all who had the privilege of knowing him.

In the wake of this tragedy, Ingham County Democrats are set to convene for their final scheduled meeting of the year on Wednesday.

This gathering is expected to be more of a commemorative event than a regular meeting, as party members come together to support one another during this difficult time.

For now, the primary focus for the party remains advocating for safer gun legislation.

Without a predetermined playbook for addressing such a loss, the party is actively working and communicating with one another to determine the best way forward while honoring Ted Lawson's legacy.

As Brian Jackson, Chair of the Ingham County Democratic Party, stressed, "We need to stop this madness," reflecting the urgent need for change in the face of escalating violence.

This article is owned by Latin Post.

Written by: Bert Hoover

WATCH: Democratic leaders remember Ted Lawson after fatal shooting in Lansing - From CBS Detroit