WARREN (WWJ) - The Warren Police Department has release video footage following an incident where they had to deploy a Taser to take a knife-wielding man into custody at a Warren 7-11.
Warren Police officers responded to calls about a man reportedly brandishing knives at the 7-11 at 12 Mile and Schoenherr roads at 11:58 p.m. Dec. 27. Callers told authorities that the man had allegedly crashed his vehicle into the building and was “terrorizing customers and employees by brandishing knives and making threats to kill,” according to a press release about the incident.
Employees locked themselves in a back room until the police arrived.
Officers said they saw 46-year-old Brian Steele standing outside the 7-11 with two knives. He was covered in blood and bleeding from “self-inflicted” wounds that happened before police arrived. He reportedly refused to drop the knives.
In the video, Steele can be heard saying "kill me, kill me," to which officers respond that no one wants to hurt him.
A woman police say was Steele’s girlfriend was seen standing by him during a portion of the incident, but it appeared that she was pushed away when officers tried to get him to drop his weapons.
After failed attempts to get Steele to drop the knives, officers deployed a Taser, at which point he fell to the ground and dropped the weapons. Officers were then able to safely take him into custody after kicking the knives away.
There were no injuries to bystanders or anyone inside the store.
Authorities recovered two serrated kitchen knives.
Steele was taken to a local hospital for non-life threatening injuries before being taken to the Warren Jail.
“The incident serves as a stark reminder of the dangers our officers face daily,” the press release said. “Their courage, professionalism, and swift action undoubtedly saved lives this evening. The calm, measured response by officers coupled with the application of sound tactics and de-escalation techniques unquestionably contributed to a positive resolution to this incident for all parties involved. This incident is yet another reminder of the dedication, professionalism, and commitment to excellence all Warren Police Officers share as they work every day to protect and serve the community.”
The Macomb County Prosecutor’s Office charged Steele with one count of assault with intent to rob while armed, a life felony, two counts of assault with a dangerous weapon, a 4-year felony, and one count of malicious destruction of a building $1,000 or more, a 5-year felony, on Dec. 30.
Steele entered a not guilty plea during his arraignment. His bond was set at $250,000 cash/surety only with a GPS tether required if his bond is posted.
Steele, who was reportedly on parole during the incident, was charged as a habitual 4th offender. He has previous felony convictions for breaking and entering, home invasion, retail fraud, larceny and other crimes, the press release said.