Court Filing Reveals Officer’s Account Of Repo Shooting Death

We finally have a detailed account of the events related to the shooting of Steve Perkins by former Decatur Police Officer Mac Bailey Marquette, as recounted by Marquette himself. This account is presented in a legal motion titled “The Shooting,” which details the occurrences of September 29, 2023, during Marquette’s patrol duties. Marquette indicates that he received a request for backup from a repossessor in Decatur, who reported that Steve Perkins had previously threatened him with a firearm earlier that morning while attempting to repossess Perkins’ vehicle.

The repossessor sought police assistance to ensure a safe completion of the repossession and return to Perkins’ residence. The motion further explains that Marquette, along with several other officers and a supervisor, responded to the scene alongside the repossessor and approached Perkins’ home. They strategically positioned themselves around the property while the repossessor remained in his vehicle. During this time, Marquette claims Perkins exited the residence with his arm extended, visibly holding a Glock 9mm handgun, aimed directly at the repossessor. According to Marquette, he was positioned behind the vehicle being repossessed when he observed Perkins directing the firearm at the repossessor.

In response to this situation, Marquette asserts that he identified himself as a police officer and issued a command for Perkins to “drop the weapon.” However, it is important to note that former Decatur Police Chief Todd Pinion stated that Marquette instructed Perkins to get on the ground rather than directing him to drop the weapon. Regardless of the specific command given, Marquette’s account continues with the assertion that Perkins turned toward him and aimed the gun at him, prompting Marquette to discharge his weapon in order to “eliminate the deadly threat” posed to himself, his fellow officers, and the repossessor.

Prosecutors maintain that Marquette discharged a total of 18 rounds during the incident. Marquette’s defense attorney, who specializes in police-involved shootings, contends that Marquette acted within the legal framework when he fired and should therefore be granted immunity from prosecution. An immunity hearing for Marquette is scheduled for March 25, with his trial anticipated to commence on April 7.