Graduation Party Turns Into Chaos: Six Injured in Benton Harbor Shooting

BENTON HARBOR, Mich. -- A Benton Harbor High School graduation party, turned into a mass shooting after gunfire erupted early Saturday morning, leaving six people injured, including one in critical condition.

What the Benton Harbor Department of Public Safety called “chaos” unfolded on Bishop Avenue after a graduation party that had reportedly been shut down at another location made its way into the neighborhood. What neighbors say started as a fight in the middle of the street, escalated to gunfire.

Residents on the street told ABC57 they woke up to at least six shots.

Virginia Meeks, a 62-year-old resident who has lived on Bishop Avenue for nearly a decade, described the panic that followed the gunfire. “They had just graduated Friday,” Meeks said. “Oh my God, oh my God.”

She recalled waking up to a flood of people scattering in all directions, some driving off quickly, others running through yards in an attempt to get away. “It was so many people out there,” she said. “When the gunshots woke me up, I saw people just trying to get out.”

Officials have not released any additional information on the victims’ ages or current statuses. Deputy Director Michael Clark noted that at least one of those injured had recently graduated, though details remain limited.

Just hours after the Bishop Avenue shooting, another shootout occurred only five minutes away at the Harbor City Flats Apartments. That incident, which took place in broad daylight, left one person injured.

Authorities say the two shootings are not connected. Police were able to arrest one individual believed to be involved in the second incident and continue to investigate both cases.

Clark emphasized the department’s concern over the recent violence and the need for community support to prevent further incidents. “We definitely do not want to have a violent summer,” he said. “If you know something, if you see something, say something. Please report it. We need help, we can’t do this alone.”

The violent weekend comes just days after of the Benton Harbor Peace Walk, an event aimed at reducing youth violence and promoting unity across the community.

Mayor Marcus Muhammad responded to the incidents by stating he is working closely with the Department of Public Safety and Michigan State Police to address the recent uptick in violence.

As the investigations continue, authorities are urging anyone with information to come forward to assist with both cases.

You can reach out to (269) 443-1032 or 1-800-342-STOP (7867).

Any photos or videos from the party that can assist with the investigation can be shared here.