DETROIT (WWJ) - A Detroit man, still on the run, has been charged in the beating death of a man from Berkley.
Wayne County Prosecutor Kym Worthy announce Friday she has charged 23-year-old Lawrence James Davis with the murder of 24-year-old Tyler Jordan Wingate.
According to investigators, Wingate and a passenger were driving northbound on Livernois Ave., sometime after 1 a.m. on July 22, when they were involved in a crash with another vehicle.
Wingate and his companion got out of the car and walked into a gas station parking lot where it's alleged that Davis struck Wingate in the head. After he fell, according to Detroit police, Davis continued to assault him, ultimately killing him with a kick to the head.
Davis left a 2007 Chevy Impala at that the scene, fled on foot and police haven't been able to find him.
He is charged with Open Murder. although amended or additional charges are possible once he is apprehended.
Meanwhile, a funeral was held for Wingate at Berkley Community Church. He will be buried Friday afternoon at Oakview Cemetery in Royal Oak.
The victim's brother, Jason Wingate said the last thing his family wants is revenge. Instead, they want justice "for the loss of a spectacular young man. A young man who friends, family and classmates say loved playing basketball and baseball and was excited about recently moving to Detroit and looked forward to being a part of the city's renaissance."
More than $50,000 has been raised in his honor.
Police have not said if they believe Davis fled the Detroit area, or where he may be hiding out. He is described as a black male, 6'1'' tall and around 200 lbs.
As the search continues, Crime Stoppers is offering a $1,000 reward for the tip that leads to his arrest.
Anyone who has seen Davis or knows of his whereabouts is urged call Detroit police at 313-596-2260 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-SPEAK-UP (1-800-773-2587). As always, those who call Crime Stoppers will stay 100 percent anonymous, will not be asked their names, to speak to police or to testify in court.
MORE: Wingate Family Begs Beating Suspect To Turn Himself In