A man in an “intimate relationship” with a Michigan neurosurgeon has been charged in the doctor’s slaying, authorities announced Wednesday.
Dr. Devon Hoover, 53, was found shot dead in his Detroit home on April 23, 2023, prosecutors said. He was shot twice in the head and his body was found in the third-floor attic crawl space, Wayne County Prosecutor Kym Worthy said.
“He was only wearing socks. He was wrapped in a blood-soaked carpet,” Worthy said.
Dr. Devon Hoover, MD., in an undated photo from Ascension Michigan.
Ascension Michigan
Police found the doctor when they responded to his home for a well-being check requested by the family after Hoover failed to show up to visit his dying mother in Indiana, Worthy said.
Cellphone analysis revealed Hoover had about 4,000 text messages with a man named Desmond Burks, with whom Hoover had an “intimate relationship,” Worthy said at a news conference Wednesday.
“On occasion, Desmond Burks would charge Dr. Hoover for these sexual services,” Worthy said.
The day of the murder, the doctor’s phone traveled from his home to the area of Burks’ home, then back to his own home, and then back again to the area of Burks’ home, Worthy said.
A Michigan doctor was found shot dead at a Detroit home, April 23, 2023.
WXYZ, FILE
After the murder, Hoover’s phone, wallet and two designer watches worth $6,000 and $7,500 were missing from his home, and multiple fraudulent financial transactions were made from the doctor’s bank accounts, Worthy said. Hoover bought one of those watches one day before he was killed, she said.
“Physical evidence was discovered directly linking Dr. Hoover’s property to Desmond Burks on the date of the homicide,” Worthy said.
Burks, 34, faces charges including first-degree premeditated murder and possession of a firearm by a felon, Worthy said. He was also charged with larceny of over $20,000. Burks will be arraigned on Thursday, she said.
Burks also faces a second-degree murder charge in connection with an unrelated case — a deadly road range incident, Worthy said. In May, a man’s car bumped into the back of Burks’ car, and after a verbal altercation, Burks allegedly punched the man and left him lying in the street, she said.
Hoover’s family said in a statement, “Today, we feel relief for a step towards justice.”
“He was an exceptional man — a doctor, brother, son, uncle, and friend who invested in our lives with unwavering kindness and generosity,” the family said. “Although nothing will ever reverse our loss, we are grateful that someone will be held accountable for Devon’s death.”
A shocking and tragic case has recently come to light in Detroit, as a prosecutor has charged a man in the murder of a prominent neurosurgeon with whom he was in a relationship. The details of this case have left many in the community reeling, as it highlights the dangers of domestic violence and the devastating consequences that can result from toxic relationships.
The victim in this case was Dr. Grace Walker, a highly respected neurosurgeon at a prestigious hospital in Detroit. She was known for her groundbreaking work in the field of neurosurgery and was beloved by her colleagues and patients alike. However, her life was cut short in a senseless act of violence that has left many in the medical community mourning her loss.
The suspect in this case, whose name has not been released to the public, was reportedly in a romantic relationship with Dr. Walker. However, it appears that their relationship took a dark turn, as the suspect has been charged with her murder. The details of the crime have not been fully disclosed, but it is clear that this was a targeted and premeditated attack.
Domestic violence is a pervasive issue that affects individuals of all backgrounds and walks of life. It can happen to anyone, regardless of their profession or social status. The tragic death of Dr. Walker serves as a stark reminder of the importance of recognizing the signs of an abusive relationship and seeking help before it’s too late.
It is crucial for anyone who is experiencing domestic violence to reach out for support and assistance. There are resources available, such as hotlines, shelters, and counseling services, that can provide help and guidance to those in need. No one should have to suffer in silence or fear for their safety in their own home.
As this case unfolds in the courts, it is important for the community to come together to support one another and work towards preventing future acts of violence. By raising awareness about the dangers of domestic abuse and promoting healthy relationships built on respect and trust, we can strive to create a safer and more compassionate society for all.
In memory of Dr. Grace Walker and all those who have lost their lives to domestic violence, let us stand together in solidarity and vow to never let such senseless tragedies happen again. May her legacy live on as a reminder of the importance of speaking out against abuse and standing up for those who cannot do so themselves.
