Dear Kirksey Recreation Member:

Because we value your safety and wish to avoid misinformation, I'm writing to let you know about an incident of violence that occurred on June 8 at the Jack E. Kirksey Recreation Center. Incidents like these are extremely rare, and we take them very seriously.

At approximately 4:50 p.m., a 29-year-old male Livonia resident assaulted a 13-year-old male Livonia resident. Both are members of the facility. The assault occurred without provocation and was incredibly devasting for the child and those who witnessed it. The Livonia Police Department (LPD) was called within 50 seconds of the incident occurring and responded within three minutes. The adult in question was arrested, and the youth was treated for injuries and taken to Trinity Health Livonia Hospital by the Livonia Fire Department. I was there; additionally, I have read the police report and reviewed the video of the incident. Our front desk and building staff responded immediately by calling LPD within 22 seconds of the youth asking for assistance, and they removed him from the scene to provide care and protection. The staff responded appropriately, as they are trained not to insert themselves into physical altercations but to contact the police immediately. I want to thank the staff at the Kirksey Recreation Center for their quick response. 

By way of background, training for the Rec Staff in the areas of de-escalation, conflict resolution, active shooter response, and workplace violence avoidance has been provided and increased in the past year.

When physical or verbal incidents occur, our Rec Center Rules dictate a minimum of one-year suspension from the facility. In this case, the adult’s membership has been permanently suspended. 

At the City of Livonia, we strive to create safe, inviting, and inclusive spaces for all our residents and visitors. This was a terrible act of violence. As such, this case has been turned over to the Wayne County Prosecutor’s office. 

We do not tolerate violence or aggressive behavior. Incidents like this are rare in our facility. But, when they do occur, it is a reminder that additional work is needed to create the community we hope for in the future. 

We all play a role in keeping our Rec Center safe. If you see something that doesn’t seem quite right, say something. Go with your gut. Tell a Rec Center employee or report it to the Front Desk if you feel uncomfortable about something you have seen or heard.

The safety of our residents and visitors is our top priority.

Sincerely,

Ted Davis

 City of Livonia Parks & Recreation Superintendent