A judge has ruled that William Channer III, the suspect accused in a deadly workplace shooting in Almont Township, is competent to stand trial, clearing the way for further court proceedings later this month.
Court records show a Lapeer County District Court judge made the determination following a December hearing. Channer is scheduled to return to court on Jan. 29 at 1:30 p.m.
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Channer is charged in connection with the Nov. 5 shooting death of Logan Welch, a plant manager at Trims Unlimited in Almont Township. Prosecutors allege Channer entered the business and shot Welch, who later died from his injuries at an area hospital. Investigators say Channer’s employment with the company had been terminated prior to the shooting.
The 32-year-old Columbus Township man faces five felony charges, including first-degree premeditated murder, third-degree fleeing and eluding a police officer, carrying a concealed weapon without a permit, possession of a firearm by a prohibited person, and using a firearm to commit a felony. A not guilty plea was entered on his behalf at arraignment. Channer remains lodged at the Lapeer County Jail without bond and faces a potential life sentence if convicted.
Authorities say Channer fled the scene after the shooting and was later spotted by Imlay City police, leading to a high-speed pursuit that ended near Metamora. Michigan State Police report that an armed confrontation followed, during which two deputies fired shots, striking Channer. The deputies were later cleared of wrongdoing. Five police vehicles were damaged during the chase. Welch, an expectant father, also coached at Grand Blanc West Middle School.