Macomb County Man Convicted In Random Stabbings, Killing Of Woman

MACOMB COUNTY, MI — A Macomb County man was convicted Thursday in a series of random Macomb County stabbings that left one person dead and another injured in 2023, the Macomb County Prosecutor's Office said.

Shane Burns, 33, of Washington Township, was found guilty of nine counts, including first-degree murder, assault with intent to murder, disarming a police officer and multiple weapons charges.

He will be sentenced July 24. He faces life in prison for first-degree murder.

Prosecutors said the jury returned the verdict after deliberating for roughly 20 minutes. The trial lasted six days.

During the morning hours on May 17, 2023, prosecutors said Burns randomly stabbed and slit the throat of 60-year-old Cheryl Ann Parsley of Clinton Township, in the parking lot of Belle Tire on Gratiot Avenue in Roseville. Prosecutors said Parsley died at the scene.

After the attack, prosecutors said Burns approached 42-year-old Robert Baecke, Jr., who was waiting at a bus stop around 12 Mile Road and Harper Avenue in St. Clair Shores. Burns attacked Baecke with a knife and stabbed him multiple times in the midsection, prosecutors said.

As the man fought back, Burns got back into his car and drove away from the area, prosecutors said.

Later that day, Warren Police arrested Burns in the area of Van Dyke Avenue and Stephen Road, prosecutors said.

While in custody at the Roseville Police Department, Burns began biting at his own wrists, prosecutors said.

When an officer told Burns to stop, a struggle ensued between the two that ended with Burns grabbing the officer's knife and cutting his own wrist, prosecutors said.

During a search of Burns’ vehicle, police found a shotgun, a 9mm firearm and a large amount of ammunition.

"Today’s verdict brings a measure of justice to the victims of this horrific attack," Macomb County Prosecutor Peter J. Lucido said. "Our thoughts are with the victims and their families, who have shown extraordinary strength. We hope this conviction offers them some solace. I want to thank the investigators, first responders, and our prosecution team for their tireless work. While nothing can undo the harm caused, we remain committed to pursuing justice for all victims of violent crime."