Detroit Police Chief and Officers Visit Families Impacted by Gun Violence, Offering Support During the Holiday Season

Detroit — Detroit Police Chief Todd A. Bettison and neighborhood officers spent the early afternoon making compassionate visits across the city, reconnecting with families impacted by gun violence, transit workers and local residents during a time of year that can intensify grief and emotional hardship. The department made seven stops, each focused on offering comfort, resources and reassurance to families navigating loss during the holidays.

Officers Visit Families of Children Lost to Gun Violence

Among the most emotional visits were those with families who have lost young children to gun violence, including the families of 6-year-old Rylee Love and 4-year-old Samir Grubbs. Officers visited their homes, spoke with loved ones and delivered gifts and meals as a gesture of care during a deeply difficult season. Chief Bettison emphasized that these visits are rooted in sincerity and long-term community support, not publicity.

“We are doing the right thing,” Bettison said. “When you’re touching people on a deeper level, it’s not surface. I don’t do things for show. I want to make sure we’re making a real impact, and their reactions let me know we’re here at the right time, in the right place, doing the right thing.”

During one visit, officers met with Jasmine Grubbs, the mother of 4-year-old Samir Grubbs. Her family of five received gifts and a warm meal from the department. Through tears, she expressed her appreciation for the unexpected kindness.

“Even though I am sad, I’m still overwhelmed with recognizing that there are still good people in the world,” she said. “So thank you. My heart will always be Detroit.”

Officers Engage With Transit Workers and Riders at DDOT Station

The outreach continued at the Jason Hargrove Transit Center, where Bettison and officers spent time engaging with DDOT employees and bus riders. Many riders spoke directly with officers, received community resource information and shared personal stories about safety, neighborhood concerns and their experiences with the department.

These exchanges were designed to strengthen communication and trust between residents and law enforcement while creating a more welcoming environment for transit users.

“It bridges the gap when it comes to law enforcement, public trust, and our overall community,” Bettison said. “We all need stories like this during the holiday.”

Holiday Outreach Aims to Rebuild Trust and Provide Support

The department’s holiday route reflects an ongoing effort to deepen community relationships and show residents that law enforcement is committed not only to safety but to healing. For many families, especially those experiencing grief, the holidays can reopen emotional wounds. Police leaders say this makes compassionate engagement even more important.

By offering face-to-face conversations, emotional support, meals and gifts, the department hopes to provide moments of comfort during a challenging time of year.

The initiative also demonstrates an effort to promote visibility in communities in a positive, non-enforcement setting—an approach Detroit Police leaders say is critical for building meaningful partnerships with residents. For more community stories, public safety updates and local coverage, visit NapervilleLocal.com.