Southfield investigators have cleared an armed security guard of all charges after he fatally shot a woman who pointed a firearm at him during a chaotic scene outside a local bar. The shooting occurred as the guard attempted to render aid to an injured person following an earlier physical altercation.

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SOUTHFIELD, MI (2-minute read) — A fatal encounter outside Bloom Southfield has resulted in no criminal charges for the armed security guard involved. Following a thorough investigation into the January incident, Southfield police Chief Elvin Barren announced that the guard acted in self-defense when he discharged his firearm, striking 33-year-old Alexandra Fields.

The situation began with a physical fight involving several individuals, including Fields’ relatives. While the security guard was actively providing medical aid to a woman injured during that initial brawl, Fields allegedly approached him. According to witness statements and police reports, Fields was initially armed with a wrench before pulling a handgun and raising it toward the guard from a distance of only one to two feet.

The Dynamics of Self-Defense for Security Personnel

In this high-stress environment, the guard fired six rounds, killing Fields. Unfortunately, one round also struck a bystander in the leg, though that injury was not life-threatening. Chief Barren noted that the proximity and the presence of a firearm created an immediate threat to the guard’s life, justifying the use of lethal force.

Bloom Southfield owner Kenny Valentino emphasized that the bar employs several safety protocols, including “wanding” customers for firearms and contracting professional security. Following the shooting, the bar plans to collaborate with local police to improve lighting and surveillance. Additionally, management is meeting with residents of the nearby Chateau Villa Condominiums to address safety concerns and implement parking lot attendants to prevent further spillover from the venue’s crowds.

Safety Tip: Always maintain a “reactionary gap” of at least 21 feet when dealing with a potential threat. In a self-defense situation, distance is your greatest ally because it buys you the most precious commodity: time. Time allows you to process information, identify a weapon, and decide on the most appropriate level of force. If someone is acting aggressively, do not let them “close the distance” or get within arm’s reach, as a physical struggle makes it significantly harder to safely access your tools or escape the situation.