DETROIT (WWJ) -- A teenager from River Rouge has been charged as an adult with first degree murder in the shooting death of another teen in Detroit.
Zayer Brooks was arraigned in 36th District Court Tuesday afternoon in the connection with the slaying of 17-year-old Edmond Lamont Butler, more than a month ago in Detroit.
According to the Wayne County Prosecutor's Office, Brooks and Butler were friends.
Police said Butler was found dead at around 11 a.m. on July 26, after officers responded to reports of gunfire at South Liebold and Gilroy Streets.
Butler was in the driver's seat of his car, according to investigators, with a gunshot would to his head.
Following an investigation by Detroit Police, Brooks was arrested in River Rouge on Aug. 31, and a handgun in his possession was seized.
It is alleged, according to police, that Brooks got into the back seat behind Butler and shot him in the back of the head one time before feeling the scene.
A motive for the killing is is known at this time. Prosecutors said further details will come out in court during the preliminary examination.
“The WCPO takes any decision to waive juveniles as adults extremely seriously. The alleged actions of the defendant in this case show a significant degree of decisiveness and weighing of his options in the killing of his avowed best friend. Truly tragic any way you look at it,” said Prosecutor Kym Worthy, in a statement.
Along with first degree, premediated murder, Brooks has been charged with felony murder, carrying a concealed weapon and two counts of felony firearm.
Brooks was remanded to jail without bond following his arraignment.
He will be back in court for a probable cause conference scheduled for Sept. 20, followed by a prelinmary exam set for Sept. 27, before Judge Kenneth King.
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