Two die in Lawrence Township shooting

By Paul Garrod
Staff Writer

LAWRENCE TWP. A small Lawrence Township New Year’s Eve celebration turned deadly just after the new year following a shooting that killed two men, according to a press release from the Van Buren County Sheriff’s Office.
Van Buren County Sheriff Daniel Abbott said at approximately 12:05 a.m., Van Buren County Sheriff’s deputies were dispatched to the 57000 block of 60th Avenue in Lawrence Township for a report of a male shot in the back and a second male who had been shot in the head.
Deputies arrived at the scene and found that Jason McCreary, 40, of Sutter Creek, Calif., was deceased with a gunshot wound to the head. Deputies also located David Reed, 35, of Waverly Township, who had been shot multiple times but was still alert and being treated. Reed was transported to the hospital, where he subsequently passed away from his injuries.
Deputies determined that a small New Year’s Eve party was taking place during the time of the shooting where fireworks were also being discharged. The suspect began discharging the firearm shortly after midnight.
A 62-year-old Lawrence man at the scene was arrested for multiple counts of reckless discharge of a firearm causing death. More charges may follow as the investigation is ongoing, according to Sheriff Abbott. The criminal complaint will be submitted to the Van Buren County Prosecutor’s Office for review once completed.
Also assisting in the incident were the Pokagon Tribal Police Department, Hartford Police Department, Lawrence Quick Response Team, Van Buren Emergency Medical Services.