Murder suspect found competent to stand trial

Channer back in court Jan. 29

 

LAPEER CO. — Murder suspect William Channer will be facing further court appearances following a Lapeer County Judge’s ruling in December.

Channer, who is facing multiple felony charges, is alleged to have been involved in the shooting death of a plant manager in Almont Twp. in early November, 2025.

Channer allegedly shot and killed Logan Welch, a plant manager at Trims Unlimited in Almont. A Lapeer County District Court Judge found him fit for trial at a hearing Dec. 11 according to court documents. He is expected back in Court at the end of this month, on Jan. 29 at 1:30 p.m., according to court records.

The Columbus Township man is charged with first degree premeditated homicide, fleeing a police officer and three weapons charges in connection with the Nov. 5 shooting.

A not guilty plea was entered on Channer’s behalf during his arraignment, according to court records.

He is in custody at the Lapeer County Jail and is facing life in prison, if convicted.

Authorities say the 32-year-old Channer, from the Richmond area, was moved to the jail from the hospital after spending several weeks recovering from multiple gunshot wounds during an armed incident involving Lapeer County Deputies Nov. 5.

The Lapeer County Prosecutor’s Office has indicated Channer will remain in custody, with no bond, until his next court appearance on the 29th of this month.

He is facing five charges including first-degree premeditated murder. Other charges against Channer are: Carrying a concealed weapon without a permit; Possession of a firearm by a prohibited person; Third-degree fleeing and eluding a police officer; and Using a firearm to commit a felony.

Almont Police Chief Daniel Willis alleges Channer walked into Trims Unlimited on M-53, north of the village, and shot Welch who later died at an area hospital as a result of his gunshot wounds.

Investigators say Channer’s employment had been terminated prior to the incident.

Police say Channer fled the scene in a vehicle after the shooting, and Imlay City police officers saw the vehicle driving west on I-69 a short time later.

Pursuit officers say a traffic stop was attempted before a high speed chase ensued. The pursuit ended on E. Sutton Road west of Wilder Road, near Metamora. Michigan State Police say that is where the armed confrontation between Channer and deputies took place.

According to authorities, two deputies fired gunshots at Channer and after being placed on a paid administrative leave (per department policy) the deputies were cleared of any wrong-doing.

During the chase five police vehicles were damaged, including two from Imlay City and one from Dryden Twp. The Imlay City cars are back in service after repairs according to a department spokesperson. Dryden’s vehicle was deemed totaled. No serious injuries were sustained by law enforcement officers.

Welch was an expectant father and coach at Grand Blanc West Middle School.