LAS VEGAS – A shocking case involving a suspected hitman has rocked the Las Vegas community, with new details emerging about the suspect’s criminal past and the events leading up to his arrest. Michael Coleman, 40, is accused of carrying out a series of murders over a span of nearly two years, allegedly at the behest of Carl Chester, Jr., in connection to a dispute over PPP fraud money.
### A Deadly Series of Murders
From May 2021 to February 2023, Coleman allegedly carried out four murders, targeting three men and one woman. In addition to the fatalities, a bystander was also injured in one of the shootings. The murders were believed to be orchestrated by Chester, who was seeking retribution for not receiving his share of the PPP funds. The Paycheck Protection Program was established to assist businesses during the initial stages of the COVID-19 pandemic.
The final murder took place on February 27, 2023, when Coleman allegedly shot and killed Kidada Stewart, 48, outside her home in the southwest valley. Surveillance footage captured a vehicle matching the description of the one used in previous murders parked near Stewart’s residence before the fatal shooting occurred. The footage showed a figure exiting the car and firing multiple shots at Stewart as she arrived home, resulting in her death.
### A Fortuitous Traffic Stop
In a surprising turn of events, an Arizona state trooper stopped Coleman on U.S. 93 between Kingman and Phoenix on the same day as Stewart’s murder. The trooper cited a faulty headlight and license plate illumination as reasons for the stop, unaware of Coleman’s alleged involvement in the series of killings. This routine traffic stop would later prove crucial in linking Coleman to the crimes.
During the stop, the trooper questioned Coleman about the presence of firearms in his vehicle. Days later, Las Vegas Metropolitan Police intercepted the same car, uncovering a hidden gun in the engine compartment. Forensic analysis later confirmed that the firearm matched cartridge casings found at the scene of a previous murder, solidifying Coleman’s connection to the crimes.
Coleman’s arrest for Stewart’s murder on May 4, 2023, was not without incident, as he initially resisted leaving his residence, leading to a tense standoff with law enforcement. The subsequent investigation into Coleman’s past revealed a troubling history of violence and criminal activity.
### Troubled Past and Gang Affiliations
Coleman’s criminal record dates back to a gang-related incident in 2003, where he shot a man in North Las Vegas following a perceived act of disrespect. He and Chester were previously incarcerated on federal charges related to the Rolling 60s Crips gang in West Las Vegas. In 2006, Coleman received a 12-year prison sentence for his involvement in the shooting, during which he expressed remorse and a desire for redemption.
Despite his release from prison in the 2010s, Coleman struggled to adhere to the conditions of his parole, resulting in multiple returns to incarceration. As a convicted felon, he was prohibited from possessing firearms, a restriction he violated in connection to the recent murders. Coleman’s troubled past and criminal associations shed light on the complex web of circumstances that led to his alleged involvement in the series of killings.
### Legal Proceedings and Ongoing Investigation
As of Thursday, Coleman remains in custody at the Clark County Detention Center, with a judge ordering him to be held without bail. A jury trial for the Stewart case is scheduled to commence in October, where further details about Coleman’s alleged role in the murders are expected to be revealed. The investigation into the series of killings continues, with law enforcement agencies working tirelessly to uncover the full extent of Coleman’s actions.
The case of Michael Coleman serves as a stark reminder of the dangers posed by individuals with a history of violence and criminal activity. The tragic consequences of his alleged actions have left a lasting impact on the victims’ families and the Las Vegas community as a whole. As the legal process unfolds, justice will be sought for those affected by this heinous string of crimes.
For further updates on this developing story, please contact 8 News Now Investigator David Charns at dcharns@8newsnow.com.