DETROIT — The owner of a vacant house on Prest Street was arraigned Saturday on a series of felony charges stemming from a mass shooting that occurred during an after‑hours party on September 27. Javon Scott, who holds a partial ownership interest in the 14800 block of Prest Street, faced counts of operating a criminal enterprise, maintaining a house of ill fame, keeping a drug house, and furnishing a place for consideration with alcohol.
Charges and bond
Scott appeared before a 36th District Court magistrate and was released on a $75,000 bond, set at 10 percent. He is scheduled to return to court on Oct. 12. In addition to the criminal charges, the city notified Scott that it intends to seize the property under blight‑abatement authority.
Shooting details
According to police, the incident began as a dispute between women over a missing cell phone. The argument escalated outside the house, and a suspect entered the melee and opened fire. Investigators recovered at least 16 shell casings at the scene. The shooting left three men dead and four others wounded.
Victims and investigation
The victims were identified as local residents; their families have been offered support services by the Detroit Police Department. Wayne County Prosecutor Kym Worthy said the motive appeared to be a personal dispute rather than a pre‑planned act of violence, though the use of a firearm turned the confrontation into a tragic mass shooting.
Owner’s response
Scott’s attorney told the court that his client does not live at the property, which is currently listed as vacant and has been cited for multiple blight violations. The lawyer said Scott, a licensed plumber, is working to repair the house so it can be made available for occupancy.
Legal context
The charges against Scott focus on his alleged role in maintaining a location that facilitated illegal activity, including the provision of alcohol to underage individuals. Prosecutors are also pursuing separate charges against Christopher Rafael Gouch, who faces 14 counts, including three counts of premeditated murder and four counts of assault with intent to commit murder.
Community impact
Detroit officials emphasized the need for swift action to address properties that become hubs for illegal activity and violence. The city’s decision to seize the house reflects a broader effort to combat blight and improve public safety in neighborhoods plagued by recurring crime.
Original reporting: Warren | FOX 2 Detroit — read the source article.