Kalamazoo Court Verdict: Harper Creek Senior Kaiden Cole Found Guilty in Shooting Death of Montine Wiley Jr.

Kalamazoo Court Verdict, Harper Creek Senior Kaiden Cole Found Guilty in Shooting Death of Montine Wiley Jr.

KALAMAZOO, Michigan — Kaiden Cole, 18, a senior at Harper Creek High School, was found guilty in the 2025 shooting death of 27-year-old Montine Wiley Jr., a security guard who lost his life outside Green Door Distilling in Kalamazoo. The verdict comes nearly a year after the tragic incident, which shocked both the local community and the employees of the popular Kalamazoo establishment.

According to court records, Wiley was performing his duties as a security guard when he was shot, resulting in his untimely death. Cole was subsequently arrested and charged with homicide in connection to the case. Throughout the trial, prosecutors presented evidence including witness testimony, surveillance footage, and forensic analysis that linked Cole to the fatal shooting, while the defense argued mitigating circumstances in an attempt to challenge the charges.

The jury deliberated carefully before reaching the guilty verdict, signaling a decisive moment for justice in the case. Family members of Montine Wiley Jr. expressed relief and gratitude that the legal process resulted in a conviction, while community members reflected on the tragic loss of a young life devoted to public safety.

Legal experts note that sentencing will follow in the coming weeks, where Cole will face the penalties associated with the conviction. The case has sparked ongoing conversations in Kalamazoo about security protocols, youth involvement in violent crime, and the need for community support for first responders and security personnel.

As the community continues to mourn Montine Wiley Jr., residents are calling for awareness and prevention measures to help ensure such tragedies do not repeat.