Jalen Coats Stevens, a 28‑year‑old father of four from Detroit, was shot and killed outside Chita’s Nefertiti Bar and Lounge on Grand River Avenue near Greenfield on January 4, 2026. His younger brother, Glenn Stevens, was stabbed 14 times but survived. Police later charged 42‑year‑old Michael Alan Harris with first‑degree murder and related offenses in connection with the deadly altercation.
Jalen had gone to the bar with his brother to celebrate a recent promotion at work. What began as a night of joy turned tragic when a scuffle broke out as patrons were leaving the venue. Witnesses said the confrontation escalated quickly after someone shoved another person, pepper spray was deployed, and chaos spilled onto the sidewalk outside the bar. Amid the disorder, gunfire erupted, striking Jalen, while Glenn was stabbed repeatedly.
Emergency responders rushed to the scene, but Jalen’s injuries proved fatal. Glenn was transported to the hospital with severe wounds, including a collapsed lung, and underwent surgery. Family members later expressed outrage at the lack of adequate security at the bar, questioning why staff did not intervene as the fight escalated. The incident left the Stevens family devastated, with Jalen’s children and partner facing the unimaginable loss of a devoted father and partner.
Jalen’s family described him as selfless and deeply committed to his loved ones. He was a hands‑on father to four children, the oldest just seven years old and the youngest twins only 19 months. His only daughter shared a particularly close bond with him. His younger brother remembered him as “everything a big brother was supposed to be,” while his longtime partner emphasized the heartbreak of raising their children without him, noting the milestones their daughter and sons will miss with their father gone.
Authorities quickly identified Michael Alan Harris as the suspect. He was arrested and arraigned in Detroit’s 36th District Court on charges of first‑degree murder, felony firearm possession, and resisting and obstructing a police officer. Prosecutors said Harris fired the shots that killed Jalen during the melee outside the bar. The case remains under investigation as Harris awaits trial, and community members continue to call for accountability and justice.
The killing of Jalen Stevens underscores the devastating impact of gun violence and the ripple effects it leaves behind. His death has become a rallying point for his family and community, who remember him as a loving father, partner, son, and brother. As his children grow up without him, loved ones say they will carry forward his legacy of devotion and strength, even as they seek justice for the life cut short outside Chita’s Nefertiti Bar.