Woman recounts fatal shooting of her boyfriend in Ypsilanti Township apartment
Sarah Collinsworth says it hasn’t sunk in yet that the father of her 15-month-old daughter won’t be coming home.
As Collinsworth sat on a nearby couch Saturday night, her boyfriend, 28-year-old Jason Hoover, was fatally shot during a robbery in an Ypsilanti Township apartment.
Jason Hoover and his 15-month-old daughter are shown in this family photo.
“It’s just not real to me yet,” Collinsworth said Tuesday afternoon. “I’m trying to keep it together to get the funeral arrangements out of the way. I know when the funeral comes, I’m going to crack.”
Collinsworth, 24, is working to raise thousands of dollars for Hoover’s funeral. To help cover costs, a spaghetti dinner and silent auction will be held Friday at Glad Tidings Worship Center at 2131 Holmes Road in Ypsilanti Township. The two-hour event starts at 6 p.m. and costs $10 per person, said Amanda Holloway, 25, of Belleville, who is organizing it.
Holloway considered Hoover an uncle to her 9-year-old daughter and said he had a special way with children.
"He knew how to make you smile," Holloway said. "He was silly. The kids loved him. There’s tons of kids that are gonna miss him. He was a big part of their life.”
Witnessing a shooting
Keywone Jarvis Walker, 22, and James Daniel Lester, 22, both of Ypsilanti Township, and Willie Edward Walker, 30, of Ypsilanti, face murder and robbery charges in Hoover's death. All remain at the Washtenaw County Jail.
Lester knew Hoover for more than a year, and Collinsworth said she thought the two were friends, hanging out as recently as two weeks ago. But Lester set Hoover up on Saturday to be robbed, Collinsworth said.
Collinsworth and Hoover were at her cousin's apartment at Schooner Cove Apartments in the 5000 block of Bosuns Way. They were there to help her cousin pack so she could move out, Collinsworth said. Her cousin wasn't home at the time.
Hoover agreed to sell Lester an ounce of marijuana, Collinsworth said. Lester showed up at the apartment with Willie Walker, who Collinsworth said she'd never seen before.
Lester, Hoover and Walker were standing near each other in the living room as Collinsworth sat on a couch 10 feet away, she said.
Hoover took out some marijuana and showed it to Lester, Collinsworth said. That's when Walker pulled a handgun on Hoover, Collinsworth said.
According to Collinsworth, Walker said, "Give me all your (expletive). Where’s the rest of it (expletive)?"
Hoover looked at Lester and said, “For real?” Collinsworth said.
Walker shot Hoover once at "point-blank range in his chest," Collinsworth said.
She said Hoover had no time to hand over the marijuana. "He didn't have a chance," she said.
Hoover stood there for a couple seconds and fell to the floor, Collinsworth said.
“I sat there silent,” she said. “I didn’t know what to do. So, I stood up and walked toward the hallway. I was afraid to say anything or scream.”
Walker turned toward her and told her to sit down, she said.
“What the (expletive) are you doing?” she recalled him saying.
Collinsworth said she pleaded with Walker, "Please don't shoot me. Please don't shoot me."
Walker and Lester grabbed the marijuana, but stayed in the apartment for two minutes, Collinsworth said. Lester told Walker they needed to leave, Collinsworth said.
Walker told Lester to get Collinsworth's phone, she said. Collinsworth threw it toward them and when it hit the carpet, the back cover came off.
"(Lester) took the back and left the phone," she said.
Collinsworth waited until the men left the apartment and went for her phone to dial 911. As Hoover lay on the ground, he said faintly, "Baby, call 911."
Collinsworth said, "Where did they hit you baby?" Hoover said faintly, "My chest."
“That was the last I heard from him,” Collinsworth said.
Collinsworth dialed 911. "I tried rolling him on his side to keep him from choking on his blood," she said. "I tried patting his back, trying to talk to him."
Before she could attempt CPR, she heard pounding at the door. When she answered, deputies and paramedics rushed in.
“I was hoping they could do something to help him, but I kind of knew he was gone,” she said.
Hoover was taken by ambulance to St. Joseph Mercy Hospital, where he was pronounced dead, Washtenaw County sheriff's deputies said.
"(Lester) was Jason's friend, we thought," she said. "I believe Jason was set up by (Lester)."
Collinsworth said she didn't see Keywone Walker during the incident and doesn't know him.
The suspects, from left, James Daniel Lester, Keywone Jarvis Walker and Willie Edward Walker.
A loving father
Collinsworth and Hoover dated for six years. She worked five nights a week, and Hoover cared for Makayla.
“He’d watch cartoons with her,” she said. “He’d play with her. He’d run around the house like a big kid with her. He was just so sweet.”
Hoover took Makayla trick-or-treating for the first time on Halloween. Makayla dressed as a pumpkin, Collinsworth said.
“He took her everywhere,” Collinsworth said. “She got lots of candy.”
Sarah Collinsworth and Jason Hoover dated for six years.
In addition to spending time with his family, Hoover enjoyed playing poker with friends, watching football and going to scary movies, Collinsworth said.
Collinsworth and Hoover moved to Ypsilanti Township a month-and-a-half ago from Belleville because they found a larger home. Hoover had worked recently at a roofing company and was eager to get his life back on track, Holloway said.
Hoover was on parole after serving time in prison for second-degree home invasion, state Department of Corrections records show.
"It's a terrible tragedy," Holloway said. "Nobody's life should be taken, no matter what mistakes they've made. He did want to change to be a better man."
Collinsworth appreciates the donations received so far for the funeral. In addition to Friday's dinner, people can bring flyers about Hoover to Buffalo Wild Wings at 216 James L Hart Parkway in Ypsilanti on Saturday from 11 a.m. to 2 a.m. Twenty percent of sales to customers with flyers will go to help pay for the funeral.
"Jason was loved by so many people," Collinsworth said. "We all just want him back."
For more information about how to donate, call Holloway at (734) 883-1358.
Lee Higgins covers crime and courts for AnnArbor.com. He can be reached by phone at (734) 623-2527 and e-mail at leehiggins@annarbor.com.
Comments
Monica R-W
Sat, Nov 13, 2010 : 4:29 a.m.
No one is perfect. Sure this young man had issues in his life before but, I am confused at some of the postings here. Are people actually stating that others can never change? We are living in some of the most difficult times economically. Does that make it right to sell drugs out of your home? No! In the same aspect, I can understand how during these times, people can fall into this type of behavior. The end result is this young man was murdered. There are three suspects facing murder charges. With this, being a victim of murder is not a case of morals, standards or values. A life was taken. That is the ultimate judgement. Again, I hope that his young man family will find a way, with time, to cope with their loss.
verysorry
Sat, Nov 13, 2010 : 4:07 a.m.
i hear that the family was able to give him a beautiful funeral service and the benefit dinner went very well. all because of caring people who were willing to help this mans family out. i think it is wonderful that the majority of people who heard this story offered a kind word or were willing to donate. for those who have been down right cruel on here this should show you that you are outnumbered by kind, caring, and loving people that live right here in your community.
beverly
Fri, Nov 12, 2010 : 8:56 p.m.
first i would like to say to the family may god be with you. i also would like to say yes he may have made the choice to sell drugs but where did he choose to have his life taken,can everyone that has commented here say they make all the right choices i know i dont i cant see why people cant understand this was a son a father,a boy friend and most of all a person put your self in the familys place before you open your mouth they lost son or maybe a father however he was a loved one to many people
jamie
Fri, Nov 12, 2010 : 8:55 p.m.
To all of the people that are talking about he broke the law I hope you never drive 5 over the speed limit and have an accident and need help because with that absolute disreguard for the law you should have to suffer.
Will Warner
Fri, Nov 12, 2010 : 3:48 p.m.
Everyone feels sympathy for wholly innocent victims. But people refuse to have their heartstrings manipulated by a story that does not call for unalloyed sympathy. What people call blaming the victim is actually an example of stigmatization, the societal mechanism used to nudge people away from self-destructive behavior. Perhaps A2com should have anticipated that this would be some peoples reaction and not exposed the family to this discussion.
Speechless
Fri, Nov 12, 2010 : 2:10 p.m.
This discussion has been one of extremes. In total, after all the back and forth, the negative comments collectively make this the single most spiteful and vindictive thread I've encountered on this web site. They're worse than the nasty responses to articles from several months ago that involved either undocumented residents or the hardships faced by this area's hidden poor. Scattered through the earlier entries, one finds the typing of writers who spew out draconian judgements laced with bits of fire and brimstone. Above and beyond that, it is jaw-dropping that at least a few would compound their already callous reactions by calling for censorship of details on fundraisers and donations to help cover the cost of a funeral. Apparently, for some it isn't enough to be driven by misdirected anger, as it seems they also feel an urge to exert control over the intentions or actions of others — and compound the painful difficulties for surviving family and friends as a consequence. A number of other comments, by contrast, are commendable for making the effort to offer support and condolences, or to express sympathy and sadness without passing heavy judgement on the circumstances. Of these more empathetic responses, the one that so far has struck me the most is from Lisa about 20 posts above, which finishes succinctly: "... His family and friends deserve respect, no matter what any of us thinks of... how their loved one died.... I, for one, will try to do what I can for them, because the only way to reclaim our community is by reaching out to each other."
Mallory
Fri, Nov 12, 2010 : 1:39 p.m.
@stevek I hope one day that bubble you are stuck in pops and you come to realize that the REAL world is not so cut and dry. Have you ever broke the speed limit? I would have to assume that a family that has lost a loved one to a car accident caused by someone that was speeding would say that speeding in a vehicle is much more dangerous than selling marijuana. The fact of the matter is that a good man has been ripped away from his loved ones over nothing! I think that the members of our community should be more focused on the fact that we have young people out here killing each other over a couple hundred dollars, not marijuana. Maybe you sir should be more worried about why things like this are happening in our community. Do you really believe that it is because of marijuana? If so you may want to find a new place to live because I guarantee that within the next ten years marijuana WILL be legal in Michigan. If you are so worried about it maybe you should spend more time to make a difference in our community rather than spending time antagonizing good people during their time of grief! Oh and by the way I sure hope that one day when you reach the gates of heaven, as we all will, you will not be judged the way you have judged others. Shame on you! @Clancy nicely said RIP Hoover. We will never forget the amazing man you were! Your memory will live on forever!
Clancy
Fri, Nov 12, 2010 : 12:55 p.m.
First of all, my condolences to the family. Hoover was a good kid, regardless of his mistakes. He was kind, considerate, and respectful of his elders. He was trying to improve his life. As far as being a "drug dealer", I think that is a catch 22 situation when it comes to marijuana, especially for such a small quanity. I don't drink, smoke, or do drugs, but marijuana is legal for "medical" purposes. So isn't that telling people that it really doesn't hurt you? Especially young kids trying to make a quick buck to get on their feet? It was just on the ballet in California to be legalized and didn't pass by like 12%. Once it passes there, it WILL pass every where. What about the hash bash every year held in Ann Arbor? A convention was suppose to be held in October in Pontiac to show people how to grow marijuna. With a medical marijuana card, each person can grow 12 plants theirselves. Cards are easy to get and can be grown in households with children. So, are we sending mixed messages to our kids about marijuana? Or is it only okay if it is controlled by the Government? Unfortunately, people now days have no regard for human life, marijuana was just an excuse for these perpetrators. What if he would have been working and saving his money and had a safe with $5000.00 in it and they heard about it? The outcome would more than likely have been the same. We all put ourselves in these situations everyday with people like this walking our streets. They have no regard or respect for human life. Just a shame and a waste all the way around. A lot of people and families hurt on both sides for something that will probably be legal in less than 2 years (since the Government already has their hand in it). Besides the fact, who shoots someone over a few hundred dollars worth of marijuana? It's a shame that Hoover had to give up his life to get this type of person off the street, but in the long run, he may be saving someone else's life that they may have attacked for their grocery money or ATM card.
peanuts77ma
Fri, Nov 12, 2010 : 10:31 a.m.
I am sorry for this family and their loss. I understand that he was loved my you and you will miss him dearly. I don't think that people are trying to put the blame on your love one. At this moment your pain is all that you can feel and see. That is 100% understandable! But what I think people are trying to say is this..let's take the drug out of the equation. Boyfriend and girlfriend go to apartment to help friend move, they pack up apartment, they both go home to their beautiful daughter. That is what we are mad about. The situation didn't have to be this way. As I said before grieve your love one and I hope everyone involve will look at this situation with different eyes!
HaeJee
Fri, Nov 12, 2010 : 10:19 a.m.
This is a very sad situation. I want to let the family know that there are people who are sympathetic. You will always have people there to stand and make judgments. I find it is because life has been cruel to them in one way or another and they are still bitter. Shame on them for kicking someone when they are down. I see a woman who has been trying to provide for her family that she loves. She now wants to send the father of her child off in a respectful manner. Regardless of the circumstances, we should not be here to judge him since he is not here to defend himself. Instead of people judging him on selling weed, they should ask why he needed to. Not everyone has the resources or support to live in the ivory towers.
Katie
Thu, Nov 11, 2010 : 10:59 p.m.
Sooo many people on this story that are HEARTLESS. I did not know Hoover or his family.. Ypsi is my HOMETOWN. For someone to murder someone over drugs is UNreal. Maybe, if we had a better economy to where there were more jobs, then people wouldnt have to sell drugs to get by.. Regardless, A girl lost her boyfriend of 6 years and a little girl lost her father. Put yourself in their shoes.. Quit being disrespectful and saying rude and mean things on here. I did not know any of this family but I am very sorry for the loss of Jason Hoover. My heart goes out to EVERYONE who was effected. HEARTLESS PEOPLE- Keep your comments to YOUR selfs. People that were effected dont need to read you rude and abrupting comments that you have to share. RIP.
Nioka
Thu, Nov 11, 2010 : 7:03 p.m.
i cant believe the heartless comments on here and people should be ashamed of themselves, He was a great guy and under no circumstances does any one ever deserve to go through this, and for people to be negative its just sickening R.I.P. Hoover forever loved and always missed
gracie88
Thu, Nov 11, 2010 : 1:22 p.m.
Wow, I had no idea ypsilanti had become so high and mighty. So i'm guessing that everyone of you negative people have never done anything wrong, or made a mistake and no one in your entire family has either? I am not a religious person, but if any of you narrow minded people on here are, than your a lier. I believe "thou shalt not judge" should ring a bell. I don't see anyone knocking on people's doors asking for money. The fundraiser being put in the paper is to notify other friends or family that WANT to donate. Where does it say YOU MUST GIVE THIS FAMILY MONEY! No where that I read. They don't have the money, so what would you like them to do with him? Regardless of the circumstances, the daughter is going to need some where to go to "see" her daddy, unfortunatly a cemetary. You might have a nice tv, or a nice car, and one day one of your friends decide they want it and kill you for it. I can't believe this day & age people are still so hung up on pot, a natural growing plant, not some crap made in someone's basement with who knows what in it. Is this story really about a fundraiser, or pot? No, it's about a MURDER! PERIOD!
MSJSU95
Thu, Nov 11, 2010 : 12:51 p.m.
Correction:Collinsworth Family
YpsiBronc
Thu, Nov 11, 2010 : 12:48 p.m.
Condolences to the family of Mr. Hoover on their tragic loss of a loved one. It is time that the residents of Ypsi stop condoning the culture of parole absconders and drug dealers from plying their trade in our community. Unfortunately, the "its only a little weed" dealers also seem to attract the predators and vermin that will kill without regard to the presence of non-combatant women and children in our neighborhood.
MSJSU95
Thu, Nov 11, 2010 : 12:40 p.m.
After much debating on whether or not I should say something.. my heart just can't keep from not. What bothers me the most is how people are so quick to judge another indvidual, especially when they did not know this young man personally, nor lived his life. You are judging based on what you have read or for some who felt so inclined to look on OTIS to seek information. The whole back and forth debate about AA.com including information about a fundraiser is RIDICULOUS. Many young people do not think about insurance,let alone does a parent expect to bury their child, this death was sudden and very unexpected. I'm baffled that people would even correlate needing help to bury a loved one to supporting his lifestyle..honestly that is a baseless statement. Have you even been in this situation when somone that you love was taken so suddenly and in the manner that their life was taken? I would say 99.9% have not! Well I have! You have no idea what this will do to a family, friends, and people who cared. My heart is so heavy for this young mans parents, siblings,etc. Our family just went thru something similar 3 months ago, and the devestation of my aunt having the police come to her and tell her that her daugther had been shot and killed was beyond any pain I'd ever imagined. So for those of you who are so quick to judge, so quick to persecute this young man, put yourself in his parents situation and ask yourself what would you do if an officer came knocking at YOUR door to tell you that your child was killed? you wouldn't be so quick to judge. The worst fear for a parent that has lost a child is that they died alone, he did not. Regardless of the situation, at least somebody that loved him and he loved was there in his final moments. Our family endured the same negative unbiased comments as well, she didn't deserve to be shot they way she was regardless of where she was or what she was doing. No one deserves to get murdered no matter what kind of life they may have lead or had in the past, it is still someones child, brother, uncle, cousin, friend, etc. Disgusted with how we treat each other as humans.. Prayers to the Hoover/Collingsworth Family. May Jason find peace in the hereafter and be a protective angel to his daughter Makayla
Jennifer
Thu, Nov 11, 2010 : 12:22 p.m.
I feel so bad for Sarah and her daughter this is horrible. As I was reading this story I was thinking to myself that I went to school with a girl with the last name Collinsworth and then I saw the picture and realized that I graduated with her! Sarah my thoughts and prayers are with you and your daughter along with yours and Jason's family!
breadman
Thu, Nov 11, 2010 : 11:37 a.m.
Needless to say there is no one right in this story!! But the one that will suffer later in life, if the truth comes out is a BABY, By the means of a picture this was a very loved lil one my DAD. Weather or not he was working or not at the time it is a baby that is a the victim. God Bless To The Little Sole!!!! Let her bury her Daddy the way it should be! With Love
Janet
Thu, Nov 11, 2010 : 10:57 a.m.
Come on people it don't matter what was the cause he is gone so grow up and leave the rest to the lord, because at this point that is whats left and until you walk in someone else's shoes you don't know so if you want to help please do so if not thank you anyways but please keep the family in your prayers
Goodphotographer
Thu, Nov 11, 2010 : 12:23 a.m.
@ lisa Thank you for saying that.
Goodphotographer
Thu, Nov 11, 2010 : 12:19 a.m.
wmsam04 "The lack of humility from the friends and family regarding the lifestyle he engaged in is what I find shocking and unacceptable." Oh so you feel the friends and family are to express to this community, humility and be responsible for the decease individual prior actions? That is what you are concerned with? Did you run this past the community and get all aprovals first? This isn't a post game sports report. I may never read another comment after that. (Explictive)
jamie
Thu, Nov 11, 2010 : 12:18 a.m.
First of all my sympathy goes out to all of the friends and family. It is unbelieveable the reaction comming some of these people. I guess everyone is so rich in ypsilanti that no one needs help or their life has been so sheltered that they never had to do something out the way to get by. I am tellin you i wish i lived in their perfect world. When one has kids they want their kid to have everything and some time in order for that to happen people do what they have to do. This may have been a bad choice but it was made. That is not his family's fault so why dont they deserve help. Im sure that if they had money the (get by) would have never been needed.
Mallory
Thu, Nov 11, 2010 : 12:17 a.m.
To all of Hoover's friends and family please do not feed into all of the negativity on this thread. Rather let's focus on the positive! So many people in our community knew Hoover, the person he really was not what people assume about him based on what they read. Fortunately there are many people and businesses in our community that are not as closed minded as some. With that being said I would like to extend a special thank you to all of the local businesses that have generously donated their resources to the Benefit for Jason Hoover: Big Boy (Belleville) Red Rooster Subway Victory Lane Hungry Howies (Ford Blvd.) Round Haus Powerhouse Gym (Huron St.) Oasis Hot Tub Gardens (Ann Arbor) Olive Garden (Ann Arbor) Leo's Coney Island (Huron St) Ruby Tuesday Bob Evans Elizabeth Blaine Photography Gabriel's Hoagies Total Gas Station BW3s (Ypsilanti) Full House Restaurant Fran's Gas Please join us to share memories and help the family and friends of Jason Hoover give their son, brother, father, or friend a proper memorial. RIP Jason Hoover. http://www.facebook.com/?sk=messages&tid=1220176080924#!/event.php?eid=162470117126466&index=1
Lisa
Thu, Nov 11, 2010 : 12:17 a.m.
"I submit that you might find the circumstances more of an issue if you shared a common wall in an apartment with the victim." Well, I do share a wall with that apartment. I was home on Saturday night and heard the gunshot from next door. All of you so quick to pass judgment, I wish you had heard what I did on Saturday. I heard Ms. Collinsworth crying and screaming outside my door as she talked to the police. What I heard and saw will haunt me for the rest of my life. Was Mr. Hoover wrong to sell pot? Was he putting himself in danger? Am I pissed off that that sort of thing happened so close to home? Yes to all of the above. BUT: the world is not black and white. Regardless of the victim, a human being died under horrible circumstances. I can't imagine how painful it must be to not be able to bury the person you love. His family and friends deserve respect, no matter what any of us thinks of their responses to grief or how their loved one died. I, for one, will try to do what I can for them, because the only way to reclaim our community is by reaching out to each other.
Heather
Thu, Nov 11, 2010 : 12:11 a.m.
Jamie I am truly sorry for your loss! Sarah for yours as well!!! You're stronger women than I am. I can't imagine your suffering with all of this added to it. I haven't seen Jason in years but my memories are fond. He was a wonderful guy (honestly not a glorified account) and he deserves more than this. Keep your heads high and know that there are tons of us here for you in your time of need.
please.end.the.violence
Thu, Nov 11, 2010 : 12:11 a.m.
This was a senseless killing, My condolences go to Sarah, family and friends. She had to eye witness the shooting. For you people with negative comments Stop it you don't know how bad it's going to hurt Makeyla, Not knowing or seeing her father's face ever again. So stop the endless retarded violence.
bunnyabbot
Thu, Nov 11, 2010 : 12:07 a.m.
@Ed regarding the fundraiser of the woman killed in the car accident, you are comparing apples to oranges. She left work at the DQ and was hit and killed by a drunk driver, she didn't offer him a beer and her keys to drive her home. This guy however was selling weed and invited drug users over to buy weed. Her's was a random act, his wasn't and was based on his lifestyle.
wmsam04
Wed, Nov 10, 2010 : 10:58 p.m.
@thatgirl I am sorry for the families loss. I am sorry for the entire situation but I feel compelled to speak up for my community. There are people out there doing the right things. There are fathers in Ypsilanti who aren't selling drugs to make their living, and they love their daughters to. These are the people that need our support. Where in the article did it mention what this man contributed? Where was the service to the community? Where was it said that he did anything to make a better life for his family? Those are the types of things that should compel people to act on his behalf. I can't help but be taken aback by the lack of standards. It has nothing to do with the crime he was a victim of. The lack of humility from the friends and family regarding the lifestyle he engaged in is what I find shocking and unacceptable.
treetowncartel
Wed, Nov 10, 2010 : 10:49 p.m.
Three people in jail for murder and we are arguing over what to do with the lifeless body they left behind? If I am ever on trial the first question my attorney will ask is have you ever posted a comment on AnnArbor.com? I hope St. Peter asks that question at the pearly gates too. If what is alleged is true these guys committed a common law felony, punsihable by death in great old England, the source of our common law. Selling weed wasn't even a crime of any kind in Great old England. Yeah, happenstance it turned out to be bad decision, but who are the parties responsible for that?
obviouscomment
Wed, Nov 10, 2010 : 10:36 p.m.
i am appalled that annarbor.com would allow such comments. i've been deleted for a number of small things on other articles and yet they allow people to say these things?! i am a resident at these apts in the same building where the shooting took place...fear is understandable, i cried thinking about the life of my unborn child being in danger...but the point is, this could happen anywhere and you never know what your neighbors are into or have been into in the past...someone's life was lost and sure they weren't perfect but it's not up to us to judge what kind of person he was or what his intentions were...honestly most of you who are saying such horrible things would never say it to this family's face...and the comment i saw about pregnancy, that is none of your business...i am officially calling for annarbor.com to step up this time and delete all these insulting comments and stop allowing commenting on this article...i've seen them do it before
that girl
Wed, Nov 10, 2010 : 10:28 p.m.
@wmsam04- I submit that you might find the circumstances more of an issue if you was a friend or family member with the victim. There is something to be said for the impact on everyone that was effected by this. Theres a baby that wont see her dad, a mom wont see her son, a sister who wont see her brother, a girlfriend that no longer has her partner in life with her and so on! Your talking about the community, all of ypsi is a nasty city no matter were you are at in it, so if you lost someone due to a carelss person i bet it would be a different story, you are not the one hurting so keep your negative comments to yourself! realize there is a family hurting reading this! Stop causing drama and keep it to yourself.
YpsiMomma
Wed, Nov 10, 2010 : 10:12 p.m.
My thoughts and prayers are with this young mother and her child. Regardless of the circumstances, right or wrong, this family has experienced a great loss. Grief and loss have many stages and I hope that this family can get the support they need to stay strong, further their education and provide a loving, stable, and safe environment for themselves (mother and child). Some of you have made your points, have bickered, and criticized; please make peace with it.
wmsam04
Wed, Nov 10, 2010 : 10:01 p.m.
I submit that you might find the circumstances more of an issue if you shared a common wall in an apartment with the victim. There is something to be said for the impact on the community.
Stupid Hick
Wed, Nov 10, 2010 : 9:53 p.m.
@wmsam04 "No one is blaming the victim or attempting to be cold and unfeeling." To the contrary, there are many callous comments here which blame the victim. It's disgusting.
wmsam04
Wed, Nov 10, 2010 : 9:40 p.m.
I think there is disconnect in this conversation that needs to be addressed. No one is blaming the victim or attempting to be cold and unfeeling. There is the unfortunate choice made in the article to advertise the family's attempt to fundraise for the funeral in the community. At that point it stops being a story about an incident, and becomes a conversation about community standards. I am a believer in the decriminalization of marijuana to prevent incidents such as these. That doesn't change the fact that this man was engaged in criminal activity prior to the incident. No matter how loving a father he is reported to be his behavior was both illegal and dangerous and not only for himself but for his family and his neighbors. That warrants mention in my opinion if his friends and family are going to ask something of the community he endangered instead of taking care of it themselves. If they weren't asking for something it would be a total non issue. They would be left to their grief and privacy.
Stupid Hick
Wed, Nov 10, 2010 : 9:10 p.m.
@emu2009 "But the fact of the matter is had he never agreed to sell drugs to Lester this may not have happened." Ok then: so let's say your mother crashes into another car while texting, and the driver of the other car jumps out of the wreckage and kills her. So, by your reckoning, your mother is partly responsible for her murder, and it is wrong for your family to accept help to pay for her burial, which you feel she does not deserve because she was doing something illegal that caused the chain of events which lead to her death. Moreover, you feel it's completely reasonable when people you don't even know try to convince others, in a public forum, that you and your family deserve no sympathy, and try to persuade others not to help you, lest they encourage your mother's reckless, illegal, lifestyle. Does that sum it up?
Goodphotographer
Wed, Nov 10, 2010 : 8:32 p.m.
I don't think any existing or future parent for that matter can say or predict what their child will be doing 20 or thirty years after they are born. Parents can only hope that whatever positive lessons they teach their children, will keep those children safe and help them to become successful, productive and caring citizens. However, tomorrow's health and success is not promised to anyone and the world we live in is well stocked with people that will kill others for little or no reason at all. All people make mistakes. It's part of the human condition and it's not a perfect world and never will be. Some people will help others to the point of giving their own life to protect others and others sadly will stand by and curiously watch while they die. The good thing is not all people will shoot and kill other people over money or property. Not everyone can plan for every possibility life may throw at them. My point is, this is not the time for judgement, finger pointing and ridicule. Sometimes a family will need help. Mr Hoover's family could use a little help tomorrow and in the years to come and most certainly will get it from positive people who care. Why anyone would speak negatively about the mention of the fact of how or question why someone is helping someone else in need of help is ignorance at it's ugliest. May Mr Hoover's family and friends find peace, comfort and closure as they adjust to his tragic death.
stunhsif
Wed, Nov 10, 2010 : 8:29 p.m.
I feel bad for Mr. Hoover, I really really do. It is apparent he was a loving father and boyfriend who had many good attributes which were snuffed out because he made some serious mistakes and it cost him and his family all too dearly. Hopefully others living in similar circumstances can make the necessary changes to get their lives in order and make "selfless" rather than "selfish" choices. We are all responsible for the decisions we make in life and dealing drugs puts not only yourself in harm's way, it puts your family and your neighbors in danger as well. It is very sad that Mr. Hoover could not be given another chance to get his life in order so he could be there for his daughter and family.
mommaof2
Wed, Nov 10, 2010 : 8:26 p.m.
I am so sad that this little girl will never know her father. What a beautiful picture, you can tell by his eyes that he loves her truly and deeply. I am sad so many comments are missing the point here... to the family I am so sorry for your loss, I could never every imagine what you are going through.
that girl
Wed, Nov 10, 2010 : 8:13 p.m.
suz..well said,
that girl
Wed, Nov 10, 2010 : 8:09 p.m.
you all should be ashamed of yourself, theres a man that is no longe with us and you all want to bad talk him, you all feed on drama thats why you are all on here. grow up and stop talking bad about a man that cant even defend himself! if you dont have anything good to say keep it to yourself! get a life and leave others alonr you now nothing about! rip hoover
Suz
Wed, Nov 10, 2010 : 8:08 p.m.
I think it's very sad that Jason's family has to bury him tomorrow and on top of it they have to read these heartless comments from people that don't even matter. A child lost her father. I can't believe the harsh reality of the world surrounding us. I can't believe people have the nerve to talk this way about someone who was murdered, for NOTHING. People I know have lost a friend, lost a brother, a LOVED one. He was loved by many and it's just not right to talk about someone like that. What you should be doing is praying for his family and friends to find peace and be able to make it through tomorrow and the dark days to come. Pray that they can cherish the memories they have of him and pray that they can share them memories with his daughter. Everyone needs strength to get through tragedy's like this, they don't need ridiculous comments made to give them more anger. I'm sure they have enough anger for the people who murdered him. So find something to do and leave his friends and family alone. When a family reaches out to the public for donations, you should not kick them while they are down. Obviously they need the money. If this story is something you don't agree with then move on to the next one. Don't sit and judge people you don't even know. I don't see anyone talking about the cowards behind this tragedy. Talk about the ones who caused such a horrible event. This is the kind of thing some people never get over. Something that stays with you and you have to deal with because no matter what life has to go on. No matter how hard it is, pray for strength. It's going to be hard, very hard. Look past the people on here that don't say what they need to because karma isn't good. Sometimes people end up having to face the same situation just because they couldn't understand when someone else was going through it so everyone that is making these rude and hurtful comments you better think twice. R.I.P Hoover, Always in our hearts, never forgotten! XOXO
CommonThought
Wed, Nov 10, 2010 : 7:57 p.m.
most of these comments seem to be an argument between five different people... -whats done is done, if you don't want to donate, then don't. -if you disagree with someones viewpoint, agree to disagree.
clara
Wed, Nov 10, 2010 : 7:17 p.m.
Jason Hoover, Michigan prisoner number 367280, sent to prison for home invasion, was on parole and absconded from parole when murdered. Probably had access to the Michigan Prisoner Reentry Initiative services/money but absconded instead. Absconded 9/7/10. Just the facts.
ezbngreen
Wed, Nov 10, 2010 : 7:12 p.m.
@Stefanie Murray I fail to see how my comment about selfish behavior and ignorance coupled with the actions of a group of people and a recommendation that the public, if feeling the need to make a donation may be better served by making a donation to a substance abuse center. I would argue that Mr. Hoover was not the only life lost here. There are three more by my count that have essentially thrown their lives away.
wmsam04
Wed, Nov 10, 2010 : 6:44 p.m.
I will proudly say he does not DESERVE a community funded funeral. That is something that fallen police officers and soldiers DESERVE. People who contribute to the community are given that level of respect. People who take from the community by breaking the law and creating dangerous environments do not DESERVE to be honored by their community. I am sad to see our standards have fallen so far as to even entertain the notion of helping to honor a person who lived in such a way.
stevek
Wed, Nov 10, 2010 : 6:11 p.m.
@Matt Cooper---You are adding things that nobody said. Who said he doesn't deserve a proper burial? You also say that the child did not deserve to lose a father and his parents did not deserve to lose a son. How about the deceased shouldn't have put his life in jeopardy by dealing drugs and shouldn't have been so selfish as to potentially leave a child fatherless and parents without a son.
stevek
Wed, Nov 10, 2010 : 6:04 p.m.
@ARAAT--I NEVER said he didn't deserve a proper burial. Please place your blames correctly.
that girl
Wed, Nov 10, 2010 : 6:02 p.m.
I have heard enough and everyone needs to STOP! You are all feeding into everyone elses crap dang it, are friend is gone we cant bring him back, all these people on here with there negative crap dont matter, dont feed into there opinion b/c there opinion doesnt matter!!!!! We all know the person he was and his life was cut too short. Just ignore ignorance! There are real people involved in this situation and if you have any kind of compassion you would all stop it and knock it off! We are all adults here, to many people are hurt and everyone is feeding into everyone elses opinions and its causing more heart ach. There shouldnt even be a spot to comment on this article. RIP Hoover, I will truly miss you!
paxsolace
Wed, Nov 10, 2010 : 5:25 p.m.
Donating has nothing to do with condoning what Mr. Hoover did or didn't do. It's about compassion. Judge not lest you be judged. My special thoughts and prayers go out to the families.
wmsam04
Wed, Nov 10, 2010 : 5:19 p.m.
Suzanne I'm sure you miss your friend and I certainly sympathize with that, but in condoning his behavior you do a disservice to his memory. He wasn't selling medical marijuana and what he was doing was both illegal and dangerous for not only himself but those around him. As I've said before I once lived in Schooner Cove and I know that there is a buzzer at the door that lets you decide who enters a building and I resent that element being brought into my complex. He was responsible for allowing those people into the building and putting his life, his family's life and his neighbors at risk. That behavior is anti social and illegal! It does not mean he deserves to die, but it also doesn't mean that the circumstances surrounding his death aren't relevant to this discussion when asking the community to kick in for his burial. That is simply not appropriate. This wasn't a random act of violence sadly, this was the stereotypical drug deal gone bad. If his family and friends want to give him a funeral then that is their right provided they can pay for it (or more likely convince someone else to pay for it). You should not label people as ignorant if they don't see the value in contributing to a funeral for someone who dealt drugs and brought a criminal element into their community.
Tom Teague
Wed, Nov 10, 2010 : 5:17 p.m.
I applaud Mr. Hoover's friends for pushing back on the negative comments that were directed toward him here. Expressing your positive memories of the man and your love for him will help his family immensely in the days to come; I hope you will take time to talk about your feelings for him with his daughter as she grows older and is able to understand what happened. Mr. Hoover's death is a tragedy. But what I've read from you in these comments is quite a testament to the guy that he spurred such loyalty and passion in you. I'm sorry for your loss.
emu2009
Wed, Nov 10, 2010 : 5:09 p.m.
Let me ask this, where were all these friends and family members while he was making ends meet by selling drugs? Did anyone think to step in and help him find a legal form of employment or did they just turn a blind eye? I have seen the pictures of him on FB throwing up gang signs and the tribute video with photos of marijuana buds, come on now, you aren't fooling anyone.
emu2009
Wed, Nov 10, 2010 : 5:07 p.m.
@Suzanne, if a dispensary was robbed it wouldn't be their fault because they obviously had the right credentials to sell it LEGALLY. No one on here has said he deserved to die and no one has condoned the actions of his alleged killers. What has been said is what family and friends don't want to admit. On the other story there were several posts proclaiming the victim didn't sell drugs and yet you have his girlfriend speaking to the contrary. No one ever wants to see a child without a father. That is the tragic part of this story, the only tragic part. But the fact of the matter is had he never agreed to sell drugs to Lester this may not have happened.
cinnabar7071
Wed, Nov 10, 2010 : 5:03 p.m.
@ Suzanne Hagen "As for the person who said that social services would be coming for the baby, you are heartless, she is VERY well taken care of, loved and they were and are FANTASTIC parents, how dare you say something like that." Maybe you should reread my comment, I was giving good advice. I never said they WERE coming, only that they don't take to kindly to parents who bring their kids around drug dealers. But please go ahead and let her run her month in the papers it will makee SS's job alot eaiser if they do decide to come after the kid.
ViSHa
Wed, Nov 10, 2010 : 4:57 p.m.
i just have to comment because i am reading what is going on here, and also the story about the drunk driver and i just saw it again on the 10pm news. i would think the last place i would be when a loved one is killed/murdered, would be the internet, unless i was looking up information for the funeral, etc....or emailing family and friends. i have watched news programs where it hasn't even been 12 hours and people are on tv. anyway, it is too bad this man was murdered over something so trivial and while i don't agree with how he was earning his money, i have to give props to the girlfriend, she sounds like she is a responsible and caring parent doing the best she can.
Heather
Wed, Nov 10, 2010 : 4:54 p.m.
I think it's in bad taste for people who don't want to donate to be so negative and try convince people with a compassionate heart not to donate. If you are so narrow minded to beleive that opening your heart to help others condones bad behavior - well then it's only understandable why some of you worry about the communties you live in going down hill!
Bob Needham
Wed, Nov 10, 2010 : 4:50 p.m.
Comments violating our guidelines for civil conversations have been removed.
wmsam04
Wed, Nov 10, 2010 : 4:44 p.m.
I think it is in bad taste for his family and friends to go into the community with their hands out looking for help given the circumstances surrounding his death were both criminal and anti-social. The behavior he was engaged in was detrimental to the very community they are seeking help from. While I certainly don't think the victim by any means deserved what happened to him I can not help but see this so called fundraising as misguided and inappropriate.
ARAAT
Wed, Nov 10, 2010 : 4:31 p.m.
If that is what u would like to donate to then start your own fundraiser! The fundraiser is to help his FAMILY give him a proper burial. A headstone that they can visit! People on here need to keep their negative opinions to themselves! You are obviously overlooking a part in this article that states Lester was supposed to be Hoovers friend who set him up and because of that "friendship" Hoover is no longer here to kiss his baby goodnight, spend holidays with his family or visit the friends who obviously cared alot for him...
wmsam04
Wed, Nov 10, 2010 : 4:27 p.m.
No one in my family would be in that situation because we wouldn't invite people like that into our homes with the intention of selling them drugs. It isn't "hating," its living responsibly. While its certainly unfortunate what happened it hardly equates to a tragedy for the community.
wmsam04
Wed, Nov 10, 2010 : 4:21 p.m.
Sure selling "weed" is a victimless crime. Except there was a victim in this case. Having lived in these apartments previously I moved because I no longer felt safe. I take it personally that this kind of a thing happened because it put the lives of his family and neighbors in danger. Nobody deserves to be exposed to that kind of element because someone in the building wants to sell drugs instead of working for a living. To donate to his funeral is to provide a level of support for his lifestyle. The way he chose to live was not an asset to this community and did no good for his family. Why not contribute to something that helps the community or people who make choices with the intention of helping others?
Matt Cooper
Wed, Nov 10, 2010 : 4:16 p.m.
Although I am not at all sure why, I have to say the judgementalism, self-centeredness and vitriol of some posters here has thoroughly made me sick. Do any of you really thin it's constructive to pass judgement on the VICTIM of a homicide? Do you think you're judgements make his family feel any better about the fact that they lost someone they quite obviously care an awful lot about at the hands of a murdering street thug? Do you honestly think that because he sold a little weed that he doesn't deserve a proper burial? Or that his girlfriend and daughter don't deserve to say their goodbyes in a propr and dignified fashion? Or perhaps you might think "screw him, just put his body somewhere and let someone else worry about it"? Every one of you should be ashamed of yourselves if any of this is what you think. I don't care if the man sold dope or not, he DID NOT deserve to die. His daughter DID NOT desver to lose her father forever in such a heinous way. His parents DID NOT deserve to lose their son to a murdering thug. I will be at the fund raiser, and if there's anything I can do to help this family heal from thos horrible situation, I will gladly help them. The rest of you haters can live with you consciences. I just pray that none of YOUR families are ever put in a situation anything like what these people are now forced to deal with. And if you do, don't you dare ask for help.
Suzanne
Wed, Nov 10, 2010 : 4:15 p.m.
Ok WOW, where to start, first off if you dont want to donate then DONT, I promise you we will get it done without you, so many generous people and businesses have helped us in the ypsi/ann arbor area. Those kind people who either knew Hoover or didnt who are helping his family, lets me know that there are kind empathetic people out there and not just the ignorant people I see on here. As for him putting his baby in harms way, she was NOT there, Hoover was not an angel, that is not the point, he is now! How he lived his life is NOT THE POINT here,I have not heard any of you talikng about the peoople who shot him, and robbed him, you are all so worried about a man who may or may not have been a POT dealer, and not worried about the ones who shot him in cold blood, and it has been stated by those who knew them in other comments it could have been anyone, they had guns and were gonna rob someone, and unfortunately they robbed and killed our friend. So while you feel superior in your little bubbles dont fear the Jason Hoovers of the world, fear the Daniel Lesters, Keywone Walkers, and Willie Walkers of the world. They are the threat, Hoover was a big Teddy Bear who loved children and they ALL loved him, they say a child can see into the soul and they all saw his for what it was, which was amazing! You all make me sick!!!! As for the person who said that social services would be coming for the baby, you are heartless, she is VERY well taken care of, loved and they were and are FANTASTIC parents, how dare you say something like that.
Silly Sally
Wed, Nov 10, 2010 : 4:05 p.m.
What should his family do, not bury him? Is his death their fault? No. Do they have $5,000 or so laying around for just this kind of expense? Apparently not. There is nothing wrong with helping an innocent family bury a loved one.
Silly Sally
Wed, Nov 10, 2010 : 4:02 p.m.
The funeral fund is fine, the girlfriend and daughter and the rest of the victim's family did no wrong. This is a preventable tragedy. I've seen drug sales amongst friends in college, so Mr. Hoover was not doing anything that unique, but these "buyers" just looked like trouble. I never would have dealt with them. People are judged by their demeanor, facial expressions, dress, hair-style, tattoos, and these 3 guys just look like trouble. They choose to dress and behave as they do. It should be a lesson for all of us.
wmsam04
Wed, Nov 10, 2010 : 4:01 p.m.
Wow. Raising money for a funeral for a drug dealer who put not only his family but his neighbors lives at risk by running a criminal enterprise from his apartment in our community. Where should I send the check?
Alyssa
Wed, Nov 10, 2010 : 3:48 p.m.
All i have to say is....to all of u making these neg comments... If it were your brother, father, son, cousin, etc who this happened to. What would u have to say about it?
cinnabar7071
Wed, Nov 10, 2010 : 3:35 p.m.
This is all very sad, but the mother should be worried about SS knocking on her door, they don't take kindly to parents who bring their kids around known drug dealers even if the drug dealer was one of her parents. Maybe she should spend that money on a lawyer so she doesn't say something that gets her kid taken away.
ezbngreen
Wed, Nov 10, 2010 : 3:19 p.m.
I can't imagine how low self esteem has to go when one rationalizes murdering another for a dried up plant. All parties involved in this horrific event are guilty of being selfish and ignorant. If one felt a need to make a donation why not donate to a substance abuse clinic in the name of the four lives lost.
emu2009
Wed, Nov 10, 2010 : 3:19 p.m.
@Stupid Hick As I have stated before, by AnnArbor.com publicizing the fundraisers it sends the wrong idea to those reading. It says that its okay for this behavior to happen and its okay for the community to help bury someone who engages in this type of behavior. Would you donate to the burial costs for a drunk driver who died while driving his car? I have no problem with people using their private resources to fund whatever they want. I have a problem with a news source promoting this, the friends and family should continue to use their private FB accounts and such to promote it.
Stupid Hick
Wed, Nov 10, 2010 : 2:55 p.m.
@emu2009 "I just don't think a news source should promote fundraisers for someone who died with these circumstances. Period." What is it to you? What legitimate interest do you have in what a private company does with its own resources? @trs80 "Those who donate would be condoning the illegal actions taken by the deceased." Wrong, they would be showing compassion for those who lost a loved one. Why do you take such interest in what other people do with their own private resources?
Tom Teague
Wed, Nov 10, 2010 : 2:54 p.m.
Nicely said Robyn.
ARAAT
Wed, Nov 10, 2010 : 2:51 p.m.
Very well said Robyn! @steve: His little girl was not even present when this took place. (thank god) So he did not put her in any kind of danger. Obviously from looking at pictures he loved that little girl. As stated in the article above, Lester was supposed to be a friend of Hoovers. If u allowed a friend at your house and something tragic took place because that was obviously NOT your friend, should people say u dont deserve a proper burial because u allowed that person in your home?? I think not!
robyn
Wed, Nov 10, 2010 : 2:43 p.m.
Something to think about: Funerals are not FOR the dead. They are really for the living - those left behind. While I do understand the sentiment regarding the circumstances of Mr. Hoover's death, no one has even alluded that he deserved it - no one deserves to have their life taken... Like that or any other way or for any other reason. When we make choices to engage in risky behavior, we must accept that there are consequences - sometimes very hobbile consequences. I didn't know Mr. Hoover - but I do not get the impression from his friends who have posted that if he had know this would be a consequence - he may not have made the choice. Especially knowing the danger it put his child and his girlfriend in. That said - Mr. Hoover's life has ended, there is no reason to punish his family for choices that he made. That child did nothing wrong - and she will forever be without a father. She will eventually learn of her father's fate, and she will suffer another loss. Helping the family isn't about condoning the cituation that brought them to this point, it's about understanding that there are times when animosity should be set aside.
Alyssa
Wed, Nov 10, 2010 : 2:39 p.m.
In my opinion if u dont agree with the fact to donate for the tragic loss of Hoover, then leave it alone. Theres no need for your negative comments. If you think he doesnt deserve a proper memorial because what hes was doing was a "crime" well then you need to get a heart. He didnt hurt anyone. He lost his life while the men who took his are gonna be in prision, living and breathing. That to me is unfair. R.I.P. I wish the best for his baby girl.
Jamie
Wed, Nov 10, 2010 : 2:39 p.m.
I am Jason's big sister and we apperciate everything that has been done for us. As for the comments... you wouldn't understand unless it happened to you yourself. No matter the situation in which he was taken from us he was in fact someone's son, father, brother, uncle and friend. He is gone now and will never be given a chance to change his life. The men who did it deserve everything they get.
trs80
Wed, Nov 10, 2010 : 2:26 p.m.
Those who donate would be condoning the illegal actions taken by the deceased. Darwinism.
stevek
Wed, Nov 10, 2010 : 2:24 p.m.
@Matthew Farley and AARAT--It is very unfortunate that a young man was murdered, but drug dealing is a crime. How many times have you heard of drug dealers being killed, or being set up. Shouldn't you be upset that this criminal activity was going on around an innocent little girl? With drugs there is usually guns, and he put innocent people in jeopardy by his illegal activities and his refusal to report to his parole officer. Whether you believe pot should be legal or not doesn't matter because the law says it is illegal and will be until it becomes legal.
Roadman
Wed, Nov 10, 2010 : 2:14 p.m.
The Michigan Crime Victim Services Commission is administered by the Michigan Department of Community Health. The commission authorizes payments to crime victims and has limited funeral and burial benefits available among the coverage that may be claimed by submitting an application. Their phone number is (517)373-7373 in Lansing. I hope this is helpful.
Matthew
Wed, Nov 10, 2010 : 1:53 p.m.
WHO CARES!!!!!! OMG you guys are soo nearsighted its AMAZING like i bet u couldnt read a stop sign if it slaped u in the face. like your ignorance amazes me we askin for help to bury a friend and your constantly trashing the news for helpin us do that very thing. you people make me sick i pray u need a strangers help one day and u get it cuz u all have lost your minds R.I.P HOOVER
ARAAT
Wed, Nov 10, 2010 : 1:50 p.m.
Well when it's a "friend" of his coming over i'm sure he didnt think he was putting anyone in harms way....NOBODY came on here and asked u personally for help. DONT HELP!!! Others i'm sure will help because they have a heart to help a family in need!
emu2009
Wed, Nov 10, 2010 : 1:45 p.m.
@Edward, I get that people ask for help to bury loved ones. What I don't get is a news source promoting a fundraiser to help bury a man who was killed while he was, by his own girlfriend's account and your own news story, selling drugs.
bunnyabbot
Wed, Nov 10, 2010 : 1:44 p.m.
@ARAAT and others, I cannot believe the ignorance of some people that think it is ok to condone weed, support someones actions surrounding weed etc etc. Furthermore I cannot believe the gf is not angry at him or saying as much about how the father of her daughter put HER in harms way and participated in the circumstance of his OWN death. I also agree with other comments that state to support his fundraiser would be like condoning his actions, so I as a stranger would not give money. His friends and family might but strangers may not.
ARAAT
Wed, Nov 10, 2010 : 1:40 p.m.
Nobody is EXPECTING the general public to help. They are simply ASKING!!
ARAAT
Wed, Nov 10, 2010 : 1:28 p.m.
I cannot believe the ignorance I am reading here. First of all it wasnt crack, heroin, meth, etc... IT WAS WEED!! A drug that has been legalized in many states for people with certain illnesses. You cannot die from a weed overdose. Its NOT THAT SERIOUS!! I'll bet 75% of the population smokes or has smoked it. The fact is a man was MURDERED! You can say that if it were u or someone u know that u would take the circumstances into consideration. I DOUBT THAT!! Let it happen to you or someone u know and i'm sure u will be thinking alot different. A man has died at the hands of some idiot...I cant believe how many of u are talking about him in such a negative way. Didnt your parents teach u any better??? A fundraiser is to help his family BURY HIM, not go buy drugs with. You should keep your ignorance to yourself.
emu2009
Wed, Nov 10, 2010 : 1:25 p.m.
@Matthew, I do have empathy but I know when and where to place it. I gladly help in my community when its warranted. Whether or not I have lost friends or been in this situation is irrelevant. I don't feel the burden should be placed upon the general public. Whether his friends and family choose to donate their personal money to cause is their choice. I just don't think a news source should promote fundraisers for someone who died with these circumstances. Period. I have never said he deserved to die or anything along those lines. As for opening my eyes, trust me they are wide open, that's why I can see this for what it is.
Matthew
Wed, Nov 10, 2010 : 1:18 p.m.
you kno..ur a sad individual and i really feel sorry for you cuz obviously u havent had hard times losen a friend, not havin the money to burry them, and yes having to ask ppl for help well lmao guess thats only HUMAN of us i mean we still live in a place where people help one another am i wrong well ur on cloud 9 or sumthin cuz i seriously doubt thats how u would react which shows me u havent experienced a loss like this so i will say u are a sad man/woman wateva u r and i pray u open your eyes one day. thats as as nice as i can put it i miss my friend hes gone nothing can change that but what we can do is pull together in familys time of need and send him off right R.I.P HOOVER
input
Wed, Nov 10, 2010 : 1:15 p.m.
@ Matthew, very sorry for the loss of your friend. Unfortunately there are many ignorant people, who are so perfect that they just don't understand! Sad, Sad, Sad!!!
Top Cat
Wed, Nov 10, 2010 : 1:14 p.m.
The most important thing a man can do in his life is to be a good father. Whatever Mr. Hoover's failings and shortcomings might have been, it appears he was trying to be a good father.
emu2009
Wed, Nov 10, 2010 : 1:10 p.m.
@Matthew, If it were me, I would, yes be angry that someone close to me was killed. At the same time, I would see the situation for what it was and recognize how it came to be. I wouldn't ask the general public to help bury a man who died in this way. There has to be accountability on all sides of the situation.
Matthew
Wed, Nov 10, 2010 : 1:06 p.m.
what he did is erelivent ur sayin ann arbor news shouldnt help and i quote "@Suzanne, Yes a man lost his life, yes a daughter lost her father. It was preventable. To support a fundraiser is almost like supporting the circumstances that led to the incident" well lemme put it to u like this ur friend/child/brother/cousin is killed the same way. how would u react to someone telling u o well blah blah blah shouldnt support that they are helpin raise funds for a mans death a personal FRIEND of mine for that matter. wat on earth does it matter how it happend it happend its sad and tragic and ur absolutly right im furious about it and u say that enrages me further think if it was u would u accept a comment like yours?
Greggy_D
Wed, Nov 10, 2010 : 1:04 p.m.
Did I miss it in the story? Where was the baby during this encounter?
emu2009
Wed, Nov 10, 2010 : 1:03 p.m.
@Suzanne in regards to your comment "...you have no idea if he was a drugdealer or if this was a favor he was doing for someone he thought was his friend." When his girlfriend tells the A2 reporter "Hoover agreed to sell Lester an ounce of marijuana, Collinsworth said." then that unfortunately leads people to speculate. I get that the friends and family are angry but just as you are asking the general public to look at it from a different angle, I am asking you to look at it from a different angle as well.
emu2009
Wed, Nov 10, 2010 : 12:59 p.m.
@Matthew, I get that you are angry over the loss of your friend. But when his girlfriend tells the public how things happened then that unfortunately opens the door to this type of discussion.
emu2009
Wed, Nov 10, 2010 : 12:51 p.m.
@Suzanne, Yes a man lost his life, yes a daughter lost her father. It was preventable. To support a fundraiser is almost like supporting the circumstances that led to the incident. That is why I personally feel that AnnArbor.com should not publicize fundraisers. That's what your personal FB accounts and such should be used for. I feel like the focus of this story has become misdirected and it gives the wrong impression.
Suzanne
Wed, Nov 10, 2010 : 12:48 p.m.
@ peanuts I really hope you nver have childrean because childrean take sympathy, empathy and so much more that it seems you lack. That being said, so what are you saying they should have not this beautiful little girl??????? HOW DARE YOU!!!!!! Keep your comments regarding this child to YOURSELF! furthermore he was not a resident at schhoner cove, so his desicions are not the reason for your bad neighborhood, if you are that unhappy there then you should move, as you can see the people he was there to see were moving. What your parents did is irrelevent, you have no idea if he was a drugdealer or if this was a favor he was doing for someone he thought was his friend. Regardless this was not his fault, he is not to blame, and you should be ashamed of your self for talking so badly about someone who cannot defend himself! Didn t your parents teach you not to speak ill of the dead?????
stevek
Wed, Nov 10, 2010 : 12:46 p.m.
@susan hagen--once again, no one is blaming the victim. Some of us are just pointing out the facts of the WHOLE story. It was a drug deal gone bad. Drugs are illegal.
Suzanne
Wed, Nov 10, 2010 : 12:33 p.m.
I think you guys all need to remember that a man lost his life, how can you sa that annarbor.com should not promote events to raise money for HIS FAMILY, to give him a funeral, how dare you? The comments on here sicken me that so many of you have no empathy and can aonly pass judgement, on someone you have never met. The victim is not to blame, the killers are, there is a far cry from marijuana and killing someone. I find it very sickening that you all keep blaming the victim, and I find it even more sickening that annarbor.com has not removed your visciuos comments. I hope that you are not never put ina situation like this, a tragedy such as this could happen to anyone, so you all need to think before you pass judgement.
peanuts77ma
Wed, Nov 10, 2010 : 12:19 p.m.
I think that it is sad that A2 news doesn't want to hear how this gentlemans decisions put fear in our complex! @ffje440 you want me to have empathy when I was asleep in my bed when I heard gunshots out my window? How about empathy for the people who live in this community! How easy it would be for a stray bullet to go into the apartment next door and kill a INNOCENT person!
RDanzer
Wed, Nov 10, 2010 : 12:16 p.m.
I hope we all temper our enthusiasm to embrace this eyewitness account with the reality that she is not exactly an unbiased witness and not under any legal obligation to tell the whole truth.
robyn
Wed, Nov 10, 2010 : 11:57 a.m.
ffe: I think the case you're referring to was almost 20 years old. Old cases are difficult because evidence is degraded as well a the memory of witness'. I also believe that the individual prosecutor has much to do with whether or not a case can or will be pled down. Not many good prosecutors would plea down a case like this if they had good evidence and good witness statements. I do believe that the family of the victim can also urge a prosecutor not to allow for a plea deal. @ peanuts: I think it was wrong to have your comment removed. It adds how this murder has impacted the community there and how the people who are involved in the murder have generally made your apartment complex unsafe. I think that annarbor.com has not realized that there are usually more victims than we tend to think about. In this case - we have focused only on those closest to Mr. Hoover. Yet his neighbors are also victims in their own right.
emu2009
Wed, Nov 10, 2010 : 11:52 a.m.
I agree with steveK, why isn't this story told from the view of a drug deal gone bad vs. a story to obtain sympathy?
input
Wed, Nov 10, 2010 : 11:40 a.m.
@peanuts...Maybe you should have a little more empathy on this family!!! What your parents did or did not do doesn't really matter in this situation!
peanuts77ma
Wed, Nov 10, 2010 : 11:33 a.m.
@ffej440 well let me see..... first, before you have a child you should ask yourself if you can give this child what it needs. My husband and I decided to put a family on hold during this time because we want our children to have everything it needs. Just so you know pregnancy is preventable. Second, its called doing whatever you can find to keep yourself and your children out of harms way! Even if you have to work at Mcdonalds from 8-2 then taco bell from 3-8 and then clean toilets from 9-3 am. my parents did it and alot of people are doing it! They are not selling drugs!
ffej440
Wed, Nov 10, 2010 : 11:23 a.m.
robyn- Google "Van Buren Hutchison" He was charged with murder and rape, he dumped her body in a creek like garbage. His plea deal was for manslaughter and got 3-5 years. You would think this couldn't happen but it does. peanuts77ma- So where does a young man with a record get this 40 hr week job? I'm almost 50 with no record and it took me almost 18 mos to get my current job.
Tom Teague
Wed, Nov 10, 2010 : 10:41 a.m.
My condolences to Mr. Hoover's family. No matter the circumstances, someone you loved was taken from you violently and unexpectedly. I hope that you find some peace in the days to come and are able to keep your happy memories of Jason. @Lee Higgins - You've done a good job reporting and humanizing a tragic event. Thanks for giving us some insight that goes beyond the simple facts of the story.
stevek
Wed, Nov 10, 2010 : 10:37 a.m.
@AA.com---why don't you tell the story the way it shoud be. It was a drug deal gone bad. That is exactly what it was.
stevek
Wed, Nov 10, 2010 : 10:34 a.m.
I agree with emu2009
Jamie Weeder
Wed, Nov 10, 2010 : 10:29 a.m.
This was my neighbor. My condolences.
emu2009
Wed, Nov 10, 2010 : 10:22 a.m.
I completely disagree with AnnArbor.com publicizing a fundraiser for a man who died under these particular circumstances.
robyn
Wed, Nov 10, 2010 : 10:17 a.m.
@ ffe: I don't know if they could offer a lesser charge. The circumstances may (home invasion, armed robbery, murdering someone in the commission of a robbery/home invasion) make it mandatory that the defendants with the maximum charge. I can see where they may look at a reduction of charges for those involve who did not actually kill the victim - in exchange for testimony, but the shooter will probably be charged the max.
Dot
Wed, Nov 10, 2010 : 10:17 a.m.
Absolutely amazing that the killers/robbers did not kill the only witness! Seriously, the blessing here is that this baby didn't lose BOTH parents. This mom is one lucky lady.
abc
Wed, Nov 10, 2010 : 10:10 a.m.
Mr. Higgens (or someone else at annarbor.com) Given how recently this happened and the graphic nature of the account, can you please tell us if Ms. Collinsworth approached annnarbor.com to give this partrayal or if anarbor.com appraoched Ms. Collinsworth.
ffej440
Wed, Nov 10, 2010 : 9:52 a.m.
I would not worry much about press tainting a trial. There will never be one....remember this is the land of "lets make a deal". None of these will get murder 1, probobly plea down to manslaughter and do about 5 years.
leaguebus
Wed, Nov 10, 2010 : 9:41 a.m.
This is sad. Another good reason to legalize pot.
robyn
Wed, Nov 10, 2010 : 9:40 a.m.
@ NeverBlue: I was wondering the same thing. Also - the fact that that much information is available can hurt the prosecution. If one part of that witness account is not exactly right - or she had given a similar - but different account of events to the prosecutor - it could raise doubts about her testimony. This is a terrible situation. No one deserves to have their life taken over something like this. Especially by someone he trusted. However, when people make choices to engage in certain activities they are also aware that those activities have the potential to turn sour. I am just glad that the mother and child were not harmed - or worse. I do hope that Ms. Collinsworth is able to move beyond this traumatic loss and make a good life for herself and that beautiful child.
BlueNever!
Wed, Nov 10, 2010 : 9:26 a.m.
Doesn't this eye-witness account just taint the jury pool? Not very responsible of the News to provide so much detail and name suspects. I expect now the slick defense lawyers will have a significant basis for prejudiced jurors.
glimmertwin
Wed, Nov 10, 2010 : 9:18 a.m.
The cost of doing business varies depending on what line of business you are in. Too bad this is all documented and some day when this child grows up, all she has to do is google and she is going to find out all about what happened. Very sad.
ViSHa
Wed, Nov 10, 2010 : 8:33 a.m.
Just curious, how does K. Walker fit into this? Perhaps i missed something in this story. Also, is the child's name Makalya or Makayla? Not only is it rotten that somebody would kill someone for so little, but also the so-called "friend" setting him up! Good luck in prison with that tag on you.
Hmm
Wed, Nov 10, 2010 : 8:11 a.m.
There was no cruelty in MishMash's comment, he/she is speaking the truth! Those THUGS robbed and murdered a man for an ounce of weed, that is absolutely ridiculous! It costs about $400 to buy an oz of MJ and the point MM is making is that those guys could have just worked and saved up the lousy $400 and got the weed without resorting to killing a man and going to prison for the rest of their lives. There is nothing 'cruel' about that, and imo someone that can take someone's life for $400 is most definitely a savage and a loser
Killroy
Wed, Nov 10, 2010 : 8:03 a.m.
So very sad. I just don't understand how the entire scene could unravel so quickly? I mean, to set someone up is one thing, but not to verify the quantity of dope on hand and then to kill 'em without giving him a chance to talk about the stash? For real is right!
Urban Sombrero
Wed, Nov 10, 2010 : 7:44 a.m.
My condolences to the family. Regardless of the circumstances, a young man just died and left behind a beautiful little girl, who will be without a daddy her entire life. It's incredibly sad and yes, tragic. @MichMash--the level of coldness and cruelty in your comment is disturbing.
pbehjatnia
Wed, Nov 10, 2010 : 6:47 a.m.
This is a tragedy on so many levels. I am truly sorry for Makayla's loss of her father. To grow up knowing that your father was gunned down in a drug deal gone bad is going to be a heavy weight to carry. This killing was senseless and vicious. Was Jason wrong to deal? Yes, of course. Should he have died over an ounce of marijuana? No. Never. The three men will, hopefully, go away for life. Which brings me to another topic: I resent that, as a taxpayer, I am going to be stuck paying for their violent, drug addicted, murdering useless bodies till they finally die. Probably well fed, clothed in a state prison. Maybe Michigan does need a death penalty.