Willie L. Hawkins III, known as Suga to family and friends, was fatally shot on May 7, 2022, on Detroit’s west side near Woodrow Wilson Street and Virginia Park Street. He tried to flee in his Ford Edge but the vehicle caught fire; officers found the burning car and pulled him from the wreckage, but he had already died of his injuries.

Hawkins was described by relatives as a devoted father and grandfather who for more than two decades had been a primary caretaker for his brother. His daughter and other family members spoke publicly about the loss and the role he played in their lives.

Crime Stoppers of Michigan posted a $2,500 reward for information leading to an arrest. If anyone has information about the shooting, please come forward to investigators or Crime Stoppers.