Alphonso Cooper Jr. faces serious charges after Ford Fireworks shooting

In Detroit, Michigan, a 19-year-old man named Alphonso Cooper Jr. has been arrested following a violent incident that occurred during the Ford Fireworks event on June 23, 2025. The shooting took place around 10:04 p.m. near Randolph and Larned streets, where Cooper is alleged to have shot two individuals—one a 17-year-old boy from Romulus and the other a 22-year-old woman—leaving both injured. Police reported that the shooting was also connected to a financial dispute between Cooper and the teenager, believed to involve a debt of approximately $200, which escalated to violence after a brief confrontation on the scene. The injured parties suffered significant injuries; the 17-year-old was shot in the leg, while the woman—who was an innocent bystander—was shot in the hand. Following his arrest Monday at a residence in Washtenaw County, Cooper faces a series of serious charges, including two counts of assault with intent to murder, assault with intent to cause great bodily harm, carrying a concealed weapon, and multiple counts related to using a firearm during a felony. According to Wayne County Prosecutor Kym Worthy, the unlawful introduction of a firearm during what should have been a festive public event placed many innocent attendees in unnecessary danger. Detroit Police Chief Todd Bettison praised the community and his officers for their diligent work in apprehending Cooper and stated confidence in Cooper’s role as the shooter who caused injuries to the two victims. Bettison commented on the importance of community cooperation in ensuring public safety. Following his arrest, Cooper was arraigned and placed under a $500,000 bond, with conditions including house arrest monitored by a GPS tether. He is scheduled for a bond re-determination hearing on July 14 and has upcoming court appearances, including a probable cause conference on July 18 and a preliminary examination set for July 25. This shooting incident not only raised concerns about safety at public events but also highlighted the broader issues of youth violence and the consequences of unresolved disputes in urban settings. The incident has been particularly alarming given that it occurred during a major public celebration, where many families and children were present. The effectiveness of community vigilance and police action has been highlighted in the aftermath, with local law enforcement still urging citizens to remain aware of their surroundings during such events to prevent further violence.