Felon Arrested After Gun Malfunction That Killed Girlfriend
At approximately 3:17 PM, on December 30, 2023, officers of the Griffith Police Department responded to a report of a shooting and an individual being injured at an apartment complex (Parkwest) in the 1000 block of East 35th Avenue, according to Griffith Police.
Upon arrival, officers found a deceased female, her boyfriend and a female roommate inside the apartment.
The initial investigation revealed that the boyfriend, identified as 23-year-old Mike Lee of Gary, Indiana, was in possession of a firearm at the time of the incident.
It was determined that Mr. Lee was attempting to clear a malfunction of the firearm when it discharged, striking the victim, causing the fatal injury. These findings were concluded with support of the witness’s statements, Griffith Police said.
Through a routine records check, Mr. Lee was found to have at least one (1) previous Felony conviction making him a prohibitive person to possess a firearm.
The Lake County Prosecutor’s Office was presented with the facts that are known at this time and the following charges have been filed against Mike Lee.
1: Possession of a Firearm by a Serious Violent Felon (a Level 4 Felony)
2: Reckless Homicide (a Level 5 Felony)
The Griffith Police Department also expressed their appreciation for the assistance from the Indiana State Police and the Lake County Coroner’s Office with this investigation.
Anyone with information regarding this incident may contact Detective Carney at (219)924-7503 ext. 239 or leave an anonymous message on the Griffith Police Department Tip Line: (219)922-3085
