UPDATE: The Butte County District Attorney’s Office has confirmed that no homicide charges will be filed against Gerald Michael Thompson after he shot and killed Donald Laroy Stevens on July 7, 2023, at a homeless camp located at Eaton and Cohasset Road. The DA’s office deemed the shooting an act of self-defense, but Thompson now faces charges for being a felon in possession of a firearm.
In a press release issued by District Attorney Mike Ramsey, authorities detailed that the confrontation escalated after Thompson’s dog severely injured Stevens’ pet earlier that day. Witness accounts reveal that Stevens was extremely agitated, threatening Thompson and brandishing a sawed-off shotgun from his tent. Thompson, armed with a .22-caliber revolver, warned Stevens to calm down before ultimately firing in self-defense.
Thompson was also charged with two misdemeanors: providing false identification to police and possession of methamphetamine. He is currently held at Butte County Jail with bail set at $21,000 and is expected to enter a plea on Thursday. If convicted, he could face up to 3 years in state prison.
Additionally, Thompson expressed concerns during his arrest, indicating he feared retaliation due to Stevens’ alleged ties to white supremacist groups. This adds a chilling dimension to an already tragic incident, highlighting the fears that often accompany violent encounters.
In a separate incident, two men were arrested on Monday after a violent altercation at the Humboldt Avenue Skate Park. Officers responded to reports of a fight and were informed that a firearm might be involved. The situation escalated when the men involved crashed their vehicles shortly after leaving the scene.
According to the Chico Police Department, Matthew Mejia, 35, claimed he was trying to escape when Cameron Lovehewitt, also 35, repeatedly rear-ended his car. Officers found both vehicles with significant damage, leading to Lovehewitt’s arrest on charges of making criminal threats and assault with a vehicle. Mejia was also detained for having multiple outstanding misdemeanor warrants.
These incidents underscore growing tensions in the area, as local authorities grapple with both violence and public safety concerns.
Stay tuned for more updates as authorities continue to investigate these critical developments.