Rene Miguel Zambrana Charged in Fatal Shooting of Salvation Army Bell Ringer Alvin Echols
A Detroit man has been charged in connection with the fatal shooting of a Salvation Army bell ringer outside a Kroger grocery store in Westland, Michigan, authorities announced.
The Wayne County Prosecutor’s Office confirmed that 37-year-old Rene Miguel Zambrana has been charged with first-degree murder and felony firearm in the death of 47-year-old Alvin Leon Echols.
The shooting occurred Thursday evening outside the Kroger located on Ford Road near Central City Parkway.
According to prosecutors and police, the incident took place at approximately 6:20 p.m. on Thursday, December 18, 2025. Echols was stationed near a Salvation Army donation kettle outside the store when he was shot.
After being struck, Echols ran into the store, where he collapsed near the self-checkout area. Responding officers found him suffering from a gunshot wound to the chest. Despite lifesaving efforts, he later died from his injuries.
Investigators determined that Zambrana and Echols were acquainted, though authorities have not disclosed the specifics of their relationship or what may have triggered the confrontation. Prosecutors emphasized that the shooting does not appear to be a random act of violence.
Wayne County Prosecutor Kym Worthy described the case as a tragic situation, noting that available evidence suggests the incident may have stemmed from a “complicated interpersonal relationship dispute.”
Following the shooting, Zambrana reportedly fled the scene on foot. He was located and arrested by law enforcement early Friday morning without incident.
Zambrana is scheduled to be arraigned Monday afternoon, December 22, 2025, where formal charges will be read and bond conditions determined.
The investigation remains active as detectives continue reviewing evidence and interviewing witnesses.
