KDPS Investigates Homicide on Paterson Street

Published on February 23, 2026

On Sunday, February 22, 2026, around 5 p.m., officers with the Kalamazoo Department of Public Safety (KDPS) responded to the 100 block of E. Paterson Street for reports of shots fired. While enroute, officers learned that two individuals had been shot.

Jamel Jonte-Jerome Coleman, 35, suffered a fatal gunshot wound and later died at a local hospital. A 33-year-old woman was also struck by gunfire and transported to a local hospital, where she was treated and released. KDPS extends its condolences to Mr. Coleman’s loved ones during this difficult time.

A preliminary investigation indicates that Mr. Coleman was attending a child’s birthday party when a verbal altercation occurred between him and another male outside the party venue. During the dispute, the male suspect produced a handgun and shot Mr. Coleman and the female victim before fleeing the scene in a vehicle.

At this time, the suspect remains outstanding. However, KDPS encourages him to turn himself in to law enforcement.

Anyone with information related to this incident is asked to contact the Criminal Investigations Division at 269-337-8139 or submit tips anonymously through the Kalamazoo Silent Observer tip line at 269-343-2100, via the “P3Tips” app, or online at www.KalamazooSilentObserver.com.

By authority of: Captain Danielle Guilds