Man shot, dies in South Haven parking lot after crashing his vehicle trying to escape

SOUTH HAVEN, MI (WKZO AM/FM) – South Haven police say Covert man died after he was shot in his SUV, which then crashed in a Pizza Hut parking lot in that city Thursday afternoon.

Police said 41-year-old Shondel Newell was shot around the area of Elkenburg Park and tried to drive away before crashing into the Pizza Hut parking lot, 880 Lagrange St., about 12:30 p.m. They said a dispute led to the shooting.

Newell was found in his vehicle in the parking lot minutes after a report of shots being fired. Police say Newell died in the parking lot.

South Haven Police Chief Natalie Thompson said detectives identified two persons of interest. Thompson said officers found a vehicle that may have been involved.

Police said they were able to find one of the people they believe could have been involved, but are searching for a second, 23-year-old Tiah Deshon-Juanita Sutton.

The South Haven High School and Lincoln Elementary School went into lockdown until just after 1:00 p.m Thursday for about 30 minutes.

Anyone with information on the shooting is asked to call the South Haven Police Department (269)637-5151.