The St. Clair County Sheriff’s Office also recognized this past week the bravery and professionalism of two deputies who were involved in a July incident that saw a suspect taking his own life after a police chase.
On Wednesday, September 20, township members, department members, and the Sheriff’s administration came together to recognize Deputy Joseph Holzberger and Deputy Dave Wright with a Department Citation at the Township monthly meeting.
The incident, which occurred on Tuesday, July 11, began when Deputy Holzberger came across a 2007 Chevy Trailblazer on Lakeshore Road just south of Shorewood Road, with the registered owner showing an outstanding felony warrant. Deputy Holzberger was joined by Deputy Wright and a stop was attempted.
The single male occupant, 35-year-old Jeffery Adams of Fort Gratiot Township, stopped initially and a short slow speed pursuit ensued, ending when he pulled into a residence on Lakeshore Road. Adams then ran into the home and a single shot was fired toward deputies through a window.
Deputies took cover as a second shot was heard within a minute of the first. Deputies created a perimeter around the home and the area was checked, with residents of the area being asked to shelter in place and the road closing until the situation was resolved.
Adams was found deceased in the residence from a self-inflicted gunshot wound. Deputies from the Special Response Team then searched the residence confirming Adams was the sole occupant.
Deputy Holzberger and Deputy Wright were present for the entire incident, ensuring the community and nearby citizens remained safe. Sheriff Matt King commended the two deputies, saying that the two “are well deserving of this award.”
