April 8, 2024 – A self-defense claim is under investigation concerning Friday night’s fatal shooting of David Montez Mitchell, 35, on South 4th Street. The motive for the gunfire stemmed from the alleged attempted robbery of Deshawn Baker, 47, in an apartment.
Baker told detectives in an interview after the shooting that he was pistol-whipped by Dijon Simon, 33, after inviting Simon and Mitchell into his apartment. Baker’s friend, Mario Sowell, 47, was in the apartment at the time.
After being struck by Simon’s handgun, a fight ensued between Baker and Simon over the gun. Multiple shots were fired during the struggle.
Mitchell was struck and pulled his own gun, but he is not believed to have fired. He was transported to Vanderbilt University Medical Center where he died.
Sowell was also transported to Vanderbilt with a gunshot wound. He is in stable condition.
Simon and Baker both fled by the time officers arrived on scene.
Simon was located in a nearby apartment with a gunshot wound. He was transported to Vanderbilt where he also remains in stable condition.
Two handguns, one reported stolen in 2021, were recovered from the scene.
Baker called to speak with detectives and was interviewed at MNPD Headquarters. He was released after consultation with the District Attorney’s Office.
The investigation is continuing. Findings will be staffed with the District Attorney’s Office at the conclusion.
Source: MNPD
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