STERLING HEIGHTS (WWJ) — A Center Line man has been charged for allegedly shooting and killing another man at a hotel in Sterling Heights last weekend.
Luke Svacha, 51, was arraigned Tuesday on multiple felony charges, including first-degree premeditated murder, for the shooting death of 24-year-old Jajuan Marls.
It all unfolded around 5:30 a.m. on Saturday, Feb. 1 when Sterling Heights police were called to the Extended Stay America on Van Dyke near 14 Mile after getting reports of shots fired.
Responding officers found Marls dead with a gunshot wound in the parking lot. The suspect had already fled the scene when police arrived, officials said over the weekend.
The Macomb County Prosecutor’s Office says Svacha fled the hotel and went to his home in Center Line, where a “barricaded gunman situation” unfolded. Svacha eventually surrendered after several hours, dropping his gun and leaving the home.
Authorities have not released any information about a possible motive in the case.
"This was a senseless and tragic act of violence that took the life of an individual. Our office is committed to ensuring that justice is served. We will pursue this case to hold the defendant accountable for his actions. Our thoughts remain with the victim’s loved ones as they navigate this devastating loss," Macomb County Prosecutor Pete Lucido said, per a press release.
Svacha has been charged with first-degree premeditated murder, felony firearm, carrying a concealed weapon and resisting and obstructing a police officer.
He was denied bond at Tuesday’s arraignment and his next court date has been scheduled for Wednesday, Feb. 12.
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