Kalamazoo Deputy Shot During Struggle Before Suspect Stole His Cruiser

A potentially deadly situation took place on Friday, as a Kalamazoo deputy is in stable condition after being shot by a suspect during a struggle outside the courthouse.

The incident drew a lot of attention online after dozens of police cars were seen nearby Julianna’s restaurant on the I-94 Business Loop. It was later discovered that the suspect had stolen the deputy's cruiser before crashing it near the sheriff's office on Lake Street.

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The Kalamazoo County Police Department released the following information:

On Friday, 7/17/2026 at 8:51 a.m., deputies from the Kalamazoo County Sheriff's Office responded to the 6300 block of East AB Avenue for a report of a Larceny From Auto in progress. During the encounter, the deputy was shot after a struggle with the suspect. The suspect then stole the deputy’s cruiser, resulting in a chase that went through various areas of Kalamazoo County. The chase ultimately ended with a crash in the Township of Kalamazoo near the Sheriff’s Office.

Jaylen Lipsey, the accused, has been charged with assault with intent to murder, carjacking, disarming a police officer, resisting and obstructing a police officer, causing serious injury, assault with a dangerous weapon, prohibited person in possession of a firearm, and fleeing and eluding the police, the prosecutor's office confirmed over the weekend.

After the incident was handled by the police, the suspect was taken into custody and was receiving treatment prior to being booked. The deputy, who is in stable condition, received care at a hospital in Plainwell before being transported to a local hospital for further treatment of his injuries.