James Alan Shields
By JAMES MITCHELL
Sunday Times Newspapers
SOUTHGATE — Police arrested a 53-year-old man who allegedly stabbed to death his 83-year-old mother on the Fourth of July.
James Alan Shields was charged with one count of first degree murder during a July 6 arraignment in 26th District Court.
Police were called to the 12300 block of Longtin around 8 p.m., July 4, Public Safety Director Thomas Coombs said.
“The call came in that his mom was at the bottom of the stairs,” Coombs said. “It could appear that she had fallen.”
Instead, officers found Irene Shields had been stabbed multiple times.
“That’s how she was killed,” Coombs said.
Shields was found at the home the next day, and was taken into custody. Coombs said Shields had no history with law enforcement.
“I don’t believe he had ever been arrested,” Coombs said. “I don’t think we had ever been to the house.”
A preliminary examination is scheduled for Friday, although Coombs said that likely will be adjourned at the request of defense counsel. Shields remained in custody without bond.