Bernice Shaneka Chenevert and Steven Lewis Hooks Charged in Fatal Stabbing of Cordell Harris After Liquor Store Altercation on Livernois Avenue in Detroit

Detroit, MI – Steven Lewis Hooks, 54, and Bernice Shaneka Chenevert, 31, have been formally charged in connection with the fatal stabbing of Cordell Harris, 40, following an altercation at a liquor store on Livernois Avenue late on March 10, 2026.

What Happened

According to the Wayne County Prosecutor’s Office, the incident unfolded around 11:54 p.m. at a liquor store located in the 14800 block of Livernois Avenue. Investigators say Cordell Harris approached Bernice Shaneka Chenevert, sparking a brief interaction that quickly escalated into a verbal dispute.

Authorities allege that after the exchange, Chenevert contacted her partner, Steven Lewis Hooks, and handed him a broken glass bottle. Hooks then allegedly used the object to stab Harris multiple times in the neck.

Harris was transported to a nearby hospital by private vehicle but succumbed to his injuries shortly after.

 

Charges Filed

Both Hooks and Chenevert are facing Premeditated First-Degree Murder charges, one of the most serious charges under Michigan law. Prosecutors argue that the sequence of events—including the alleged act of handing over the weapon—demonstrates intent and coordination.

Court Proceedings

The defendants were arraigned on March 13, 2026, in 36th District Court and have since been remanded to jail.

• Probable Cause Conference: March 23, 2026, at 8:30 a.m.

• Preliminary Examination: March 30, 2026, at 8:45 a.m.

• Presiding Judge: Shawn Jacque

Community Reaction

The case has sparked strong reactions online and within the Detroit community, with many expressing grief and frustration over what appears to be a senseless escalation of violence.

Social media accounts describing the incident claim that Harris was attempting a casual interaction before the situation turned deadly. While these claims remain unverified, they reflect the growing public sentiment surrounding the tragedy.

 

Ongoing Investigation

Authorities have not released further details about what may have led to the escalation or whether additional factors were involved. The investigation remains active and ongoing.

Anyone with information related to the incident is encouraged to contact local law enforcement.