DEARBORN (WWJ) - Officials have identified the man killed by police who had responded to a suspicious fire at a local mosque on Dearborn's northeast side Saturday morning.
The Dearborn Police Department said officers were on patrol in the early morning hours of Feb. 12 when they noticed a fire had broken out at the Al-Huda Islamic Association at 8835 Warren Ave.
When the officers arrived on scene, they were confronted by an armed man, Ahmed Taqi, who allegedly shot at the police. The suspect then fled the scene and was pursued by officers southbound on Lonyo Ave.
Police said 37-year-old Taqi continued to shoot at officers, despite them instructing him to drop his weapon.
Police returned fire, killing the man.
Authorities said no officers were injured in the incident.
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Dearborn Chief of Police Issa Shahin praised officers for responding bravely to the situation, but called the fatal shooting "tragic."
“This was a tragic incident for our faith community and the Dearborn community overall that unfortunately led to a loss of life," Shahin said in a press release.
"I commend our officers for responding with the utmost professionalism and courage to protect the community from imminent danger," said Shahin.
Local Muslim groups condemned the fire at the mosque and praised police response.
The motive for the fire is unclear, but officials said the suspect may have been experiencing some sort of mental health crisis.
Since the incident happened outside the city limits of Dearborn, a joint task force consisting of the Detroit Police Department and the Michigan State Police will spearhead the investigation.
Police are asking for the community's help with any information they might know. If anyone has a tip relating to this incident, they are being asked to contact the Detroit Police Department at 313-596-1800.
Tipsters who want to remain anonymous can call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-SPEAK-UP or leave a tip at www.1800speakup.org. All tipsters will remain 100% anonymous.
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