BETHEL TOWNSHIP, MI (WTVB) – Michigan State Police say they are continuing to investigate the Wednesday morning incident in Bethel Township where they say a man wanted police to shoot him and then set his residence on fire.
Troopers say 26-year-old Caleb Campbell contacted Branch County Central Dispatch making statements about using the police to commit suicide.
Troopers and Branch County Sheriff’s Deputies responded to the scene and took up positions of observation on the residence.
The State Police said in a news release that after setting his trailer on fire in the 500 block of Block Road, Campbell is said to have refused orders to remove his hand from his pocket. He then resisted efforts to be handcuffed. Campbell was taken into custody after a brief struggle which resulted in a trooper suffering a minor injury.
Troopers say Campbell admitted to them that he planned to have Troopers shoot him by pointing a fake gun.
Campbell was taken to the Community Health Center of Branch County for an evaluation. The investigation into the arson continues and the matter will be reviewed by the Branch County Prosecuting Attorney. State Police add Campbell allegedly assaulted and injured a woman on Tuesday.
Anyone with further information regarding this incident is asked to contact the Michigan State Police or Branch County Central Dispatch.
