HAZEL PARK, MI – On a quiet Saturday night, tragedy struck at a local hamburger joint, leaving a community in shock and a family in mourning. Brandon Schoenherr, a 38-year-old father working at Bray’s Hamburgers, was on a shift to earn extra money for the holiday season. It was just past 10 p.m. when he decided to take a short break and head across the street for a cup of coffee.
The burger restaurant, situated at the intersection of Dequindre and Nine Mile on the Hazel Park-Warren border, became the backdrop for a senseless act of violence. While at the gas station, Schoenherr encountered Al Williams, a 45-year-old man with whom he had no prior acquaintance. An argument ensued between the two, but they initially parted ways without further incident.
However, the situation took a tragic turn when Williams returned, confronting Schoenherr once more. The altercation escalated, and Williams allegedly drew a weapon, fatally shooting Schoenherr in the chest. The randomness of the act left the local community reeling, as it appeared the two men were strangers until that fateful night.
“This tragic event has left two children without a father, an unimaginable loss any time, but especially poignant just days before Christmas,” said a local resident. The community has been rallying around Schoenherr’s family, with a GoFundMe campaign established to offer support during this devastating time.
Police apprehended Williams approximately 12 hours later at a nearby hotel. He now faces charges of second-degree murder. Investigators continue to seek a motive behind the attack, as there was no evidence of robbery or theft involved, leaving many to question why such a violent act occurred.
Authorities have noted that the incident was not a robbery, and nothing was stolen from Schoenherr. The investigation remains focused on understanding the nature of the argument and why it led to such a grave outcome. Williams’ decision to introduce a weapon into the dispute now has him facing serious legal repercussions.
As the investigation unfolds, the Hazel Park community grapples with the shock of this tragedy. Friends and neighbors remember Schoenherr as a dedicated father and hard worker, whose life was cut short in an act of violence that seemed to defy reason.
The unexpected loss has left a void in the lives of many, and the community’s efforts to support Schoenherr’s family highlight the deep sense of solidarity and compassion among residents. As they await justice, they hold onto memories of a man taken too soon.