FRASER (WWJ) -- The family of a Fraser teen who was fatally shot by a police officer over the weekend is asking for help.
In a message posted to GoFundMe, the wife of the teen's dad said their son was experiencing a "severe mental health crisis" when officers responded to their home, in the area of 13 Mile Rd. and Kelly, on Saturday.
Amber Gould writes: "Instead of receiving care, compassion, and de‑escalation, he was met with force by the Fraser Police Department. Despite already harming himself, Fraser Police tased him and then shot him multiple times in the chest. He died on the scene.
"Our son was a child — sensitive, loving, funny, and deeply cared for by everyone who knew him. He deserved help. He deserved patience. He deserved to live."
According to the Fraser PD, there was a "domestic dispute" at the home. Officers arrived at 5:30 p.m. and came in contact with the teen.
"During an encounter, an officer discharged their firearm, striking a 15-year-old male," Fraser Police said, in a media release.
Police said officers provided "immediate medical assistance" to the teen at the scene. He was then taken to a hospital where he was pronounced dead.
No officers were injured.
Police did not offer any further details about what led up to the gunfire, and have not said whether the teen was armed.
The Fraser PD said the officer who fired the shots has been placed on administrative leave, and that the Macomb County Sheriff's Office is investigating.
Gould said the family could use some financial help as they move forward.
Her message continues:
"We are now trying to navigate the impossible: planning a funeral for a child while supporting his siblings, managing our grief, and facing the overwhelming emotional and financial aftermath of a police shooting.
We are asking for help with:
• Funeral and burial expenses
• Time away from work to grieve and handle investigations
• Legal consultations as we seek answers and accountability
Any donation, no matter the amount, helps us breathe during the darkest moment of our lives. If you cannot donate, please share. Your support means more than you know. Thank you for standing with our family through this tragedy."
For anyone who wishes to help: Here is the link to donate.
