Kalamazoo, MI — The Kalamazoo Department of Public Safety (KDPS) has officially identified the man who tragically lost his life in the early morning shooting of July 5, 2025, on West Paterson Street. The victim has been confirmed as 34-year-old Leetrail Lamont Bible, a resident of Kalamazoo.
The incident occurred shortly after 3:00 a.m., when KDPS officers were monitoring a large gathering in the 1200 block of W. Paterson Street. As officers observed the crowd, gunshots erupted, prompting immediate response. Upon arriving at the scene, officers discovered Mr. Bible suffering from gunshot wounds. Despite swift life-saving efforts, he was pronounced deceased on site.
Two additional individuals—men aged 29 and 23—also sustained gunshot wounds to their legs. Fortunately, their injuries were determined to be non-life-threatening, and they are expected to recover.
Ongoing Investigation: Justice for Leetrail Bible
Investigators believe that multiple firearms were discharged during the shooting. At least one weapon was recovered at the scene, and authorities are working diligently to determine how the violence unfolded and who is responsible. The KDPS is pursuing all leads but stresses the importance of community assistance in solving this case.
“There were hundreds of people present when this shooting happened—someone saw something, heard something, or has valuable information that could help bring justice for Mr. Bible and his grieving family,” said Public Information Officer Zach Hamelton. “We need you to speak up. Even the smallest detail could be crucial.”
KDPS extends its deepest condolences to the family and loved ones of Leetrail Lamont Bible, describing the incident as a tragic and senseless act of violence that has shaken the Kalamazoo community.
How You Can Help
KDPS urges anyone who was in the area or has video, photos, or firsthand knowledge of what occurred to come forward. Community cooperation is essential to holding those responsible accountable.
- Call the Criminal Investigations Division at 269-337-8139
- Submit an anonymous tip through the Kalamazoo Silent Observer tip line at 269-343-2100
Your tip could bring peace and closure to a devastated family and help prevent further violence in our community.
Remembering Leetrail Bible
Friends and family remember Leetrail Bible as a man full of life, whose presence brought joy to many. His loss is not just a statistic—it is the loss of a father, a brother, a friend, a neighbor. As Kalamazoo mourns another life cut short by gun violence, the call for answers grows louder.
This remains an active and ongoing investigation. Further updates will be provided by the Kalamazoo Department of Public Safety as they become available.
