[USA] Haitian National, 20, Charged With Fatally Stabbing Coworker, 21, in Coldwater, Michigan
This article organizes publicly available information into a single account. Where it describes an arrest or an ongoing investigation, that reflects only one stage of criminal procedure and does not mean guilt has been established (the presumption of innocence applies). We will update this article as new information becomes available, including the outcome of prosecution, non-prosecution, or trial. This article is not intended to unfairly disparage any individual, group, nationality, ethnicity, or belief, and aims to provide objective, fact-based information.
On June 30, 2026, a stabbing occurred at the Clemens Food Group meat processing plant in Coldwater, Michigan, USA, following an argument between two employees. According to local TV station WZZM13 and other outlets, Haitian national Valmir Djempsley, 20, allegedly chased down coworker Brandon Eduardo Velasquez Chavez, 21, after an argument on the production line and stabbed him in the back. Chavez was pronounced dead at the scene.
Djempsley has been charged with murder and has pleaded not guilty; he has been denied bond. On July 8, Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) lodged a detainer asking Michigan authorities to hand over the suspect, stating he entered the country illegally through Texas in 2024.
Current status: The suspect remains held without bond, and the outlook for any trial is unclear as of this writing. This article will be updated as further details emerge.
While not directly related to Japan, this case is presented alongside a fatal shooting case in Texas (related coverage), as an example of the challenges surrounding immigration screening and acceptance systems in the United States.