WESTLAND (WWJ) -- Charges have been announced filed in the deadly shooting of a man as he was ringing the bell for the Salvation Army a Westland Kroger store.
The Wayne County Prosecutor's Office on Monday announced charges of first- degree premeditated murder and felony firearm against 37-year old Rene Miguel Zambrana of Detroit.
Investigators said Zambrana and the victim — 47-year old Alvin Echols of Westland — knew each other, and this was not a random act.
Westland Police said Zambrana walked up to Echols, as he was collecting donations for the Salvation Army's red kettle campaign at the Kroger on Ford Road, and shot him multiple times in the chest.
Echols went into the store and collapsed. He died a short time later.
Zambrana was tracked down by police and arrested a few hours later.
Authorities have not talked in detail about a motive for the shooting, but said the two men had a personal dispute.
Prosecutor Kym Worthy said, in a statement: “As often is the case actual facts emerge that are not a part of the original narrative. It is extremely unfortunate that the focus has been that a Salvation Army volunteer was randomly murdered during the holiday season. The evidence will show that this was likely a complicated interpersonal relationship dispute. These allegations are nonetheless extremely tragic and criminal."
According to a GoFundMe set up by his family, Echols was a kind soul who dedicated his time to helping others — including volunteering to raise money for the Salvation Army. They call his death an unimaginable heartbreak and a devastating loss. A message on the GoFundMe page reads: "The timing, so close to Christmas, has made it especially hard, as the family was preparing to celebrate together and now must navigate this tragedy instead."
Bond was denied when Zambrana appeared for an arraignment in 18th District Court on Monday. A probable cause conference was scheduled for Dec. 30.
He faces life in prison, without parole, if he's convicted on the first-degree murder charge.