Man from Jackson Co. charged with assault with intent to kill deputy after lawn mower chase

JACKSON COUNTY, Mich. (WILX) – A Jackson County man is facing multiple criminal charges, including assault with intent to murder, after a police encounter involving a riding mower chase.

On September 19, Deputy Robert Henderson of the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office was dispatched to an address in Leoni Twp. to arrest James Mitchell Kerr, 41, for a probation violation, as well as two misdemeanor warrants.

Henderson approached Kerr while Kerr was sitting on a riding mower. The deputy told Kerr to get off the mower, but the suspect instead tried to escape with the lawn care equipment.

Henderson drew his Taser and chased the runaway lawnmower. Henderson ordered Kerr to stop or get a bag. Kerr got off the mower and started walking in the opposite direction. Then he got back on the mower and produced a gun. He then pointed the gun at the officer.

Henderson fired the Taser, hitting Kerr. The shock caused Kerr to shoot himself in the hand.

Kerr was arrested and taken to hospital. Due to the nature of the arrest, Sheriff Gary Schuette requested that the Michigan State Police investigate.

On October 23, 2024, Kerr was charged with assault with intent to murder, felony firearm, and resisting and obstruction. He remains in the Jackson County Jail.

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