Detroit transit officer charged with manslaughter stemming from off-duty shooting


DETROIT — Robert Tyus, 52, an off-duty Detroit transit officer who provided security for the People Mover, is charged with manslaughter and felonious use of a firearm for the shooting of Jordan West-Morson, 26, on May 1.

West-Morson, a musician, had been selling CDs outside the Gulf Gas Station at 8 Mile and Gratiot. Tyus was assisting his girlfriend with a flat tire when an altercation ensued.

"The argument escalated into a fist fight with Tyus," the Wayne County Prosecutor's Office said in a statement Wednesday. "During the fist fight it is alleged that Tyus pushed West-Morson away causing him to stumble backwards. At that time Tyus drew his gun and fired one shot killing West-Morson."

A 100,000 or 10 percent cash-surety bond was set for Tyus's release pending further court hearings.

His preliminary examination is scheduled for Sept. 30.