Michigan Poker Pro Charged with Murder After Posting Disturbing Social Media Videos
A Michigan poker player has been charged with first-degree murder after allegedly shooting a stranger dead on Detroit's east side on December 23. Craig Michael Bergeron, 35, posted disturbing videos on Facebook shortly before the incident, suggesting mental health issues.
Bearded man with dark hair smiling
Bergeron, known in online poker circles as "hu4rollz," is accused of killing Tommy Ireland, 37, and subsequently assaulting another person nearby. The victim's family, who held a candlelit vigil, described Ireland as "a gentle giant" and stated there was no known connection between him and the accused.
Hours before the alleged murder, Bergeron posted several concerning videos on Facebook, including footage of him driving around Detroit appearing paranoid about police presence. In one video, he appears terrified, claiming someone pulled a gun on him.
Bergeron has a successful poker career history with over $1.3 million in tournament earnings, including a fourth-place finish at EPT Deauville in 2010 ($312,853) and a World Series of Poker Circuit ring in 2011. He had been absent from the live poker scene for approximately five years before this incident.
Former associates from the poker community expressed shock at the news, remembering Bergeron as a caring individual who once helped a friend struggling with addiction. He now faces charges of first-degree murder, two counts of felony firearm, and felon in possession of a firearm.