No Charges Filed in Southgate Stabbing Incident

Southgate, Michigan, October 14, 2025

News Summary

In an incident at a Southgate Kroger store, a decision by the Wayne County Prosecutor’s Office has determined that Charles Hinton, 33, will not face charges for the fatal stabbing of 23-year-old Ramon Vazquez. The prosecutor’s office concluded that Hinton acted in lawful self-defense during a physical altercation. Despite the self-defense ruling, Hinton faces a charge for carrying a concealed weapon unlawfully. His next court appearance is set for October 24.

Southgate, Michigan – A decision by the Wayne County Prosecutor’s Office has determined that 33-year-old Charles Hinton of Riverview will not be charged for the fatal stabbing of 23-year-old Ramon Vazquez at a Kroger store in Southgate. The prosecutor’s office concluded Hinton acted in lawful self-defense during the incident on October 7.

The stabbing took place around 3 p.m. at the Kroger located at 16705 Fort Street. According to law enforcement, officers discovered Vazquez lying on the ground at the store entrance with two stab wounds. He was immediately transported to a nearby hospital, where he was pronounced dead shortly after arrival.

Further investigation revealed that Hinton and Vazquez were acquainted through a mutual friend but had not previously met face-to-face. Reports indicate that Vazquez entered the store searching for Hinton and engaged in a physical altercation, during which he punched Hinton multiple times. In response, Hinton retrieved a knife and stabbed Vazquez twice, resulting in the fatal injuries.

Following the incident, Hinton remained present at the scene, and evidence indicated that Vazquez was the initial aggressor in the confrontation. Under Michigan law, individuals are permitted to utilize necessary force, including deadly force, when facing imminent harm. This legal provision played a significant role in the decision not to file charges against Hinton.

Despite the ruling on self-defense, Hinton has been charged with carrying a concealed weapon for possessing the knife unlawfully during the altercation. This charge could result in a penalty of up to five years in prison. Hinton has been granted a personal bond but is barred from possessing any weapons or contacting potential witnesses connected to the case. His next court appearance is scheduled for October 24 at the 28th District Court in Southgate.

Background

Understanding self-defense laws in Michigan can help clarify the decision made by the prosecutor’s office. Under Michigan law, individuals are permitted to defend themselves against aggressive actions. In this case, authorities confirmed that Hinton’s response was justified because he was subjected to an unprovoked attack, placing him in a position where he believed he faced imminent harm.

The tragic incident is part of a broader conversation regarding self-defense claims and the legal parameters surrounding them. Such situations often prompt discussions on public safety, personal defense rights, and the consequences of violent confrontations.

Incident Overview

• Location: Kroger, 16705 Fort Street, Southgate, Michigan.
• Incident Date: October 7.
• Victim: Ramon Vazquez, age 23.
• Defendant: Charles Hinton, age 33.
• Legal Outcome: No charges for the stabbing incident, pending gun charge.
• Next Court Date: October 24, 28th District Court, Southgate.

Key Legal Concepts

• State self-defense laws allowing the use of necessary force.
• Designation of aggressors in physical confrontations.
• Consequences of carrying concealed weapons unlawfully.

Conclusion

The case has raised several important questions surrounding self-defense and the legal system’s response to violent encounters. The implications of this ruling may not only affect those directly involved but also resonate throughout the legal community and the public at large, prompting ongoing discussions about safety, legality, and community standards.

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HERE Resources

Self-Defense Ruling in Southgate Stabbing Case

Additional Resources

• Detroit News
• Click On Detroit
• Detroit Free Press
• Fox 2 Detroit
• CBS News Detroit
• Wikipedia: Self-defense
• Google Search: Southgate Kroger stabbing
• Google Scholar: Self-defense law
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Self-defense
• Google News: Southgate Kroger

Author: STAFF HERE PLYMOUTH WRITER

The PLYMOUTH STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREPlymouth.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Plymouth, Wayne County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Plymouth Ice Festival, Art in the Park, and the Plymouth Fall Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Plymouth Community Chamber of Commerce and Main Street Plymouth, plus leading businesses in automotive and retail that power the local economy such as Roush Industries and Downtown Plymouth businesses. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREDetroitMI.com, HEREGrandRapids.com, HERENorthville.com, and HERENovi.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Michigan's dynamic landscape.