TCPD Captain Provides New Details After Suspect Fled to Hotel Following Shooting Incident

TCPD Captain Provides New Details After Suspect Fled to Hotel Following Shooting Incident

New details have emerged in the tense sequence of events that unfolded after a shooting involving a Traverse City Police Department officer, shedding light on the actions of the suspect and the subsequent discovery of two individuals inside a nearby hotel room. According to TCPD Captain Pete Simerson, the situation escalated rapidly after Eugene Thompson allegedly fired at officers before fleeing the scene.

Captain Simerson explained that officers were attempting to make contact with Thompson when he reportedly opened fire, prompting police to take cover and call for additional units. After the exchange, Thompson fled on foot, leading officers on a brief but urgent search through the surrounding area. The pursuit ultimately directed police to a local hotel where they believed Thompson might be hiding.

Upon entering the hotel, officers located a room where activity appeared suspicious. Inside, they found two individuals—a woman and a man—both of whom were initially detained while officers worked to secure the building and determine whether they had any involvement in the shooting.

According to Captain Simerson, the woman was quickly cleared of any connection to Thompson’s actions. After speaking with officers, she was released without charges. The man, however, was found to be on active probation, and because of undisclosed violations discovered during the encounter, he was taken into custody. Police emphasized that his arrest was unrelated to the shooting investigation.

Neither individual is believed to have any link to Thompson or to the gunfire directed at officers earlier in the incident.

Captain Simerson noted that police were acting with extreme caution, as the initial report of shots fired naturally elevated concerns about potential threats within the hotel. “Our priority was to ensure no one else was in danger,” he said, explaining that detaining individuals during such operations is standard procedure until officers can assess the situation safely and accurately.

Authorities continue to search for Thompson, who fled before officers could apprehend him inside the hotel. Police are urging the public to remain vigilant and to report any information that could assist in locating him. Captain Simerson stressed that the incident underscores the unpredictability and danger officers face in the line of duty, particularly when interacting with armed suspects.

Meanwhile, the investigation into the initial shooting remains active. Police are reviewing body camera footage, interviewing witnesses, and gathering ballistic evidence to determine the full scope of Thompson’s actions and any additional charges he may face once apprehended.

Community members have expressed concern over the unfolding situation but have praised the coordinated response of law enforcement agencies working to ensure public safety.