Flint, Michigan – Two 23-year-old men from Flint are facing criminal charges following a shooting that occurred during a public basketball event on the campus of Mott Community College. Authorities say the incident stemmed from a confrontation inside a restroom while a game was underway, raising renewed concerns about public safety at crowded community events.
The shooting happened on January 10 inside the William S. Ballenger Field House, according to prosecutors. One man was hospitalized with gunshot injuries, while the other was taken into custody at the scene.
Incident Overview
The Genesee County Prosecutor’s Office has charged Malik Zamir Henderson, 23, and Christopher Gill, 23, in connection with the incident. Prosecutors allege that Gill shot Henderson following an altercation that escalated inside a restroom during a break in a basketball game attended by members of the public.
Both men are residents of Flint, and officials later confirmed that neither individual was affiliated with the college as a student or employee.
Timeline of Events
According to the investigation, a basketball game was in progress at the Field House when the sequence of events began. During a break in play, Gill was captured on surveillance video leaving the gymnasium floor and entering a nearby restroom.
Shortly afterward, Henderson was also seen leaving the gym. Prosecutors say he appeared to be actively looking for Gill. Video footage reportedly shows Henderson speaking with a group of men, gesturing toward the restroom, and then leading them in that direction.
A short time later, the situation escalated inside the restroom, culminating in gunfire.
Details From Police and Prosecutors
Authorities say a bystander exited the restroom and alerted a Mott Public Safety officer that a group of men was assaulting someone inside. When the officer responded, Henderson was observed suffering from a gunshot wound and was being helped away from the restroom by others.
Inside the restroom, officers found Gill in possession of a handgun. He was immediately taken into custody without further incident. Henderson was transported to a local hospital, where he received treatment for his injuries. His condition has not been publicly detailed beyond confirmation that he survived.
Charges Filed
Prosecutors have filed multiple felony charges in the case, reflecting the seriousness of the confrontation and the setting in which it occurred.
Malik Zamir Henderson, 23, is charged with:
- Gang membership
- Assault with intent to rob while unarmed
- Assault with intent to do great bodily harm less than murder by strangulation
Christopher Gill, 23, is charged with:
- Carrying a concealed handgun in a sports arena
The firearm charge stems from the allegation that Gill brought a concealed weapon into a venue hosting a sporting event attended by members of the public.
Campus and Community Context
College officials moved quickly to clarify the status of those involved. In a statement addressing the incident, Mott Community College President Shaunda Richardson-Snell emphasized that the individuals were not part of the campus community.
“Both men were not students or employees of the college.”
While the shooting did not involve enrolled students or staff, the fact that it occurred during a public event has prompted renewed discussion about security measures at athletic facilities and open-campus venues.
Public Safety Considerations
Law enforcement officials continue to stress the importance of reporting suspicious behavior promptly, especially in crowded environments. This case highlights how quickly personal disputes can escalate when weapons are involved and how vital surveillance, bystander reporting, and rapid response are in preventing further harm.
Officials encourage attendees at public events to remain aware of their surroundings and to immediately notify security or police if they observe escalating conflicts.
Conclusion
The January 10 shooting at Mott Community College underscores the challenges of maintaining safety during large public gatherings. With felony charges now filed against both men, the legal process will determine accountability for the events that unfolded inside the Field House restroom.
As the case moves forward through the courts, it serves as a reminder of the serious consequences of bringing weapons into public spaces and the role community vigilance plays in preventing violence.
If you were present at the event or have thoughts on campus safety during public games, share your experiences in the comments below.
