Theodore ’Ted’ Lawson, 63, was a longtime community activist and secretary for the Ingham County Democratic Party who was canvassing in his own North Jenison Avenue neighborhood on the afternoon of October 8, 2023. A U.S. Marine Corps veteran and a journeyman butcher at Meijer for 37 years, Lawson was known for knocking on doors, making phone calls, and educating residents about voting rights.

While going door-to-door he was approached by 15-year-old Lamar Kemp and two other teenagers. After Lawson refused a request for a dollar, Kemp fatally shot him; a nearby surveillance camera recorded the gunshot. Authorities have said the shooting was not related to Lawson’s political activity and described the attack as a random act of violence.

Lansing police identified Kemp as the suspect with the help of surveillance footage and testimony from the two teenagers who were with him. Kemp was taken into custody and charged as an adult with open murder, carrying a concealed weapon, and possession of a firearm.

Does anyone in Lansing remember seeing Lawson that afternoon or have information about the incident that could help clarify what happened?