LANSING — Family members, friends, and classmates gathered Tuesday afternoon for a balloon release honoring 47-year-old Bruce Gibson, who was fatally shot over the weekend while sitting in his vehicle outside a Culver’s restaurant in Lansing.

According to Gibson’s family, the shooting occurred early Saturday morning at the restaurant on Torrence Avenue. Family members said Gibson was sitting in his vehicle when a man approached and demanded that he roll down his window. Fearing for his safety, Gibson attempted to drive away.

As he pulled away, the suspect allegedly opened fire, striking Gibson. His vehicle then crashed into a nearby pole. Gibson later succumbed to his injuries.

The loss has devastated Gibson’s loved ones, who described him as a kind-hearted man with big dreams for the future. Family members said he was enrolled in cosmetology school, where he had found a passion and sense of purpose. Gibson was working toward earning his cosmetology license and hoped to eventually open his own business.

Gibson’s mother shared that she believes her son died protecting a friend who was riding with him at the time of the shooting. According to the family, the woman, a mother of two children, was feeling ill that day and Gibson offered to drive. His family believes she may have been the one in harm’s way had she been behind the wheel.

The shooting comes as Lansing has faced heightened concerns about violent crime. Just days earlier, a worker at an automotive paint facility was fatally shot while on the job, prompting a large-scale manhunt and investigation.

Lansing Mayor Brian Hardy said public safety remains his top priority and that he remains in regular communication with the Lansing Police Department regarding both investigations. Authorities have stated they do not believe there is an ongoing threat to the public at this time.

As of Tuesday, no information had been released by police on this incident or regarding an arrest in Gibson’s case. Family members said investigators are continuing their search for the person responsible.