Mysterious development in Saginaw County murder case - ABC 12 – WJRT – Flint, MI

(02/12/13) - There has been mysterious development in a Saginaw County murder case.

It was back in May that a Saginaw Township man was shot and killed in his home while he was hosting a poker party.

One man has been charged in the case, but Monday, the trial was delayed after the defense attorney says she has found a witness that could help her client.

According to the defense attorney, this alibi witness could provide the accused just that - an alibi.

With potential jurors and witnesses ready to begin the trial, the defense attorney for 24-year-old Quintel West explained to the court that a witness that she has been looking for in the murder case has been found. The motion regarding the alibi witness was accepted by Circuit Court Judge James Borchard and the trial for West was moved to a later date.

West is accused of murder in the shooting death Michael Kuhlman at his home in the early morning hours of May 30. Kuhlman and eight other people were playing poker in the home when witnesses say more than one person came into the home. Kuhlman was shot dead, and another man was injured.

During the preliminary hearing, a witness testified Kuhlman had allegedly purchased cocaine from West before the shooting. Investigators also testified they believe the gun used in the shooting had been stolen.

And now, nearly nine months after the shooting, a witness has come forward that defense attorney Barbara Klimaszewski indicated in court could provide an alibi for West.

Assistant Prosecuting Attorney Jon Sahli agreed to adjourn the trial, because after investigators interviewed the witness, detectives would like to speak to several other witnesses. Police believe that one or two more people were involved in the shooting.

The new trial date in the case is now set for April 23.