When Evictions Turn Tragic: Lessons for Safer Landlord-Tenant Relation

Two Preventable Losses

Imagine an eviction on your property—a routine day on paper.

Yet for two Detroit families in 2024, evictions ended in heart-wrenching tragedy. Within a span of five months, confrontations between landlords and tenants turned fatally violent.

On July 12, 2024, Sherman Butler, 45, was fatally shot during an eviction at his Palmer Park apartment. A court-appointed bailiff, sent to enforce the eviction, pulled the trigger during an escalation.

Then, in December, another tenant lost their life after a dispute with a landlord over belongings placed in a dumpster. This landlord, a former Detroit police sergeant, had arrived armed, and tensions exploded.

To think such violence erupted over disputes that could have been handled differently—it’s an unsettling reminder of the stakes in this business.

For landlords, these tragedies are a wake-up call. Handling evictions and tenancy issues with care and professionalism isn’t just good practice—it can literally save lives.

Building Better Landlord-Tenant Relations

Preventing conflicts like these starts with changes in how landlords and tenants interact. A little respect, foresight, and preparation go a long way.

Here are actionable steps you can take to keep communication open, relationships peaceful, and evictions safe.

1. Prioritize Consistent, Clear Communication

Most issues between landlords and tenants stem from miscommunication. Catching problems early makes all the difference. Here’s how you can foster better communication:

• Set a clear foundation: Write an airtight lease that spells out everyone’s rights and obligations (even the small stuff, like yard maintenance or utility payments).
• Check in regularly: Scheduled inspections or occasional emails help landlords spot small issues before they become dealbreakers.
• Keep it professional: No one wins when emotions are high. Be polite, respectful, and business-like—even if a tenant pushes your buttons.

Cordial doesn’t mean overly friendly, but it also doesn’t mean hostile. Aim for neutral and professional interactions every time.

2. Understand and Respect Tenant Rights

Landlords must stay informed about tenant protection laws. These laws exist for a reason—to ensure fairness and safety for everyone. Skirting them is not only illegal, but it drastically increases tension with your renters.

For Detroit landlords, brushing up on the latest requirements is non-negotiable.

For example, did you know tenants can’t be evicted without a court order?

Take the time to learn the rules and follow them to the letter.

3. Mediate Before You Litigate

When disputes do arise, mediation often offers a calm and effective way forward. Mediation helps resolve issues before they escalate into court battles—or worse.

Services like Wayne County’s Dispute Resolution Center or MI-Resolve provide trained mediators who bridge divides between landlords and tenants.

Mediation is affordable and establishes a safe, middle-ground environment for resolving conflicts.

4. Treat Evictions with Sensitivity

Evictions are emotionally charged situations.

Tenants may feel frightened, desperate, or angry, especially if they’ve been unable to find alternative housing. How you handle evictions can either de-escalate these emotions—or inflame them.

Here are some must-dos for landlords during evictions:

• Stick to legal procedures: Follow every step of the law without cutting corners.
• Avoid personal confrontations: Never show up unannounced or make heated comments—it’s unprofessional and dangerous.
• Use trained contractors: Professional companies with eviction expertise can carry out the process calmly and safely.

Everyone involved wants the same outcome—a smooth, conflict-free resolution. Approach evictions with care and professionalism to achieve this.

5. Invest in De-Escalation Training

Conflict-resolution training is invaluable. Techniques such as active listening, maintaining a neutral tone, and defusing heated emotions can keep tense situations from spiraling. This training is especially helpful for property managers, third-party contractors, and landlords who might find themselves on the frontlines of contentious disputes.

Many organizations in Detroit offer affordable de-escalation or crisis management courses, tailored to high-stress environments like evictions. A small investment in education could mean all the difference in a future tense situation.

6. Document Everything

Good documentation is a landlord’s best shield. Keep records of every critical interaction with tenants, including notices, payment plans, and maintenance requests. These records give you a clear timeline of events, which can protect you legally while also fostering greater transparency with your tenants.

By showing accountability, you also build trust—helping tenants see you as a professional rather than an adversary.

Final Thoughts

The loss of life in these Detroit tragedies should never have occurred. Better communication, de-escalation training, and adherence to legal processes could have saved at least two families from unimaginable grief.

For landlords, the takeaway is clear. Even under the most difficult circumstances, patience and professionalism matter. Take steps today to improve your landlord-tenant relationships—your efforts could prevent a future tragedy.

If you’ve successfully handled tough landlord-tenant situations, share your tips below. Together, we can foster safer, healthier relationships in our community.