MELVINDALE (WWJ) — Michael Lopez, the 44-year-old man accused of shooting and killing a Melvindale police officer in the line of duty, has been arrested.
Lopez, whom police had described as "armed and dangerous," was taken into custody without incident Monday evening in the area of Michigan and Livernois on Detroit's southwest side.
A multi-agency manhunt began after the suspect shot and killed officer Mohamed Said in the area of Dix and Oakwood around 11:40 a.m. Sunday.
Authorities say the 23-year-old Said was responding to a call regarding a suspicious person at a gas station in the area. When he spotted Lopez and went to speak with him, one of the suspects reportedly took off running and Said gave chase.
Said and the suspect got into a struggle during the pursuit and Said tried to use his taser, but Lopez then allegedly fired shots, killing Said.
WWJ's Charlie Langton reported earlier Monday a neighbor in Melvindale captured the suspect on a home security camera, as he threw his gun in a gutter and ran through the neighborhood moments after the shooting.
Authorities had been asking the public to be on the lookout for Lopez, who is described as 6'1'' tall, and weighing 245 lbs., with brown hair and brown eyes.
“If you see this suspect or anyone closely resembling the suspect, please do not approach or confront,” police said in the statement. “Immediately call 911 and inform the police.”
In a statement on Twitter, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco & Firearms (ATF Detroit) added that the suspect has "numerous tattoos", a goatee, and was last seen wearing black pants and no shirt. He left the scene on a "green mountain bike," they said.
The ATF Detroit, Michigan State Police, Melvindale Police and other partners joined forces to offer a $37,500 reward for information leading to Lopez's arrest. It was not immediately clear if a tip led to his arrest.
In a post on Facebook, Dearborn Police Chief Shahin described Officer Said as “a kind soul who proudly served the residents of Melvindale.”
Hamtramck City Councilman Khalil Refai remembered his friend of over ten years as “always respectful” and “determined to make a difference.”
According to Refai, Officer Said graduated from the police academy only last year.
Dearborn Heights Mayor Bill Bazzi said he was “an energetic dedicated young man, who was known for his engaging smile while serving and protecting the community.”
Said is the third Michigan Police officer killed in the line of duty in the past month.
This is a developing story. Stay tuned to WWJ Newsradio 950 on air, online, and on the Audacy app for the latest information.