Tahiry Broom dies in fatal Southfield, Michigan shooting  

Tahiry Broom dies in fatal Southfield, Michigan shooting

Fatal Southfield, Michigan shooting death of Tahiry Broom – Obituary

Authorities in Southfield, Michigan, are investigating the shooting death of 29-year-old Tahiry Broom, a Cleveland resident, as a possible hate crime. Broom was found lying face down in the snow outside an apartment complex on the morning of February 9, with a fatal gunshot wound to the head.

Police quickly identified 28-year-old Robert Ridges III as the suspect and took him into custody later that day at the MGM Grand casino in Detroit. Surveillance footage showed Broom entering Ridges’ apartment around 10 a.m. that morning. Investigators also discovered that Ridges had made multiple calls to sex workers, including Broom, before the shooting.

Authorities recovered a stolen SigSauer 9mm handgun from Ridges’ bedroom, which was matched to a spent shell casing found at the scene. The firearm had been reported stolen in Georgia in 2023.

Southfield Police Chief Elvin Barren stated that while the case is being examined as a potential hate crime due to Broom’s identity as a transgender woman, there is currently insufficient evidence to add hate crime charges. However, investigators are reviewing phone records and social media activity, which could lead to additional charges.

Ridges has been charged with murder, felony firearm possession, and carrying a concealed weapon. His bond was denied, and his next court appearance is scheduled for February 26.

Broom’s mother shared with police that her child was intelligent and brought joy to those around her. The investigation remains ongoing.