Police: Suspect In Custody In Attack Of Marvin Winans

DETROIT (WWJ ) - A suspect who police believe is responsible for attacking and car-jacking prominent Detroit pastor and gospel star Marvin Winans is now in custody.

WWJ Newsradio 950's Stephanie Davis reports that Detroit police Sgt. Eren Stephens confirms that they have a 21-year old black man in custody.

Winans was filling up his SUV at a Citgo gas station at Linwood and the Davison when a group of young men attacked him. The thieves took off with his luxury SUV, some cash and a Rolex watch.

Police reportedly found the stolen vehicle Thursday night, by an abandoned home on Wager and Dexter streets on the city's west side.

Winans is recovering at home. He suffered a broken finger in the attack.

"I'm more saddened by this incident than being physically hurt. I grew up in Detroit and have never encountered anything like this. I want to thank every one for their calls of concern and words of encouragement," Winans said in a statement. "I believe in the power of prayer and the unity that can be gained in a community when we band together."

While some may believe the incident points to escalating crime in the city, Godbee says that's not the case.

"Our crime rate is on par with last year," said Godbee. "Is it acceptable? Absolutely not. But considering we're about 300 officers fewer than just two years ago … these officers are doing a tremendous job."

Meantime, Detroit City councilman Kwame Kenyatta has proposed requiring all late night and 24-hour gas stations to staff security. The trade group that represents gas station and convenient store owners oppose the idea.