Brother Describes Fatal Lapeer County Shooting During Preliminary Hearing

A Lapeer County man is headed to trial after a judge ruled prosecutors presented enough evidence to move forward in a fatal shooting case that left a 27-year-old man dead earlier this year.

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Brandon Scott Edwards is charged with second-degree murder, assault with a dangerous weapon, and two felony firearm charges in connection with the March 18 death of Jared Hittle. Following a preliminary examination, a Lapeer County judge ordered the case to circuit court according to MLive.

Brother Describes the Moments Before the Fatal Shooting

Much of the testimony came from Jared Hittle's brother, Malachi Hittle, who said he witnessed the shooting inside an apartment where several people had been drinking.

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According to Malachi, Edwards repeatedly attempted to load a shotgun during the gathering. At one point, he testified that a shotgun shell fell onto the floor. Malachi said he picked it up and told Edwards, "This isn't happening."

Emotional Testimony in Lapeer County Court

He testified that Edwards took the shell back, successfully loaded the shotgun, pointed it at him, and then turned the weapon toward Jared Hittle. Moments later, the shotgun fired.

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Malachi told the court he initially didn't understand what had happened. He walked toward the kitchen before turning around and realizing his brother had been shot in the neck. He testified that was the moment he understood Jared had died.

Judge Sends Case to Circuit Court

One of the most emotional moments during the hearing came when Malachi testified that Edwards allegedly remarked, "It's so easy to take a life," after the shooting.

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After hearing the testimony, the judge ruled there was sufficient evidence for the case to proceed to Lapeer County Circuit Court.

What's Next in the Lapeer County Murder Case?

Edwards remains lodged in the Lapeer County Jail without bond. His circuit court arraignment is scheduled for July 27.

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As the case moves forward, it's important to note that these allegations have not yet been proven in court. Like every criminal defendant, Edwards is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.