Rochester Hills, Michigan – A tragic incident unfolded late Saturday afternoon at a splash pad in Rochester Hills, where nine individuals were shot in what authorities believe to be a random act. Oakland County Sheriff Michael Bouchard revealed that the suspected gunman, a 42-year-old man, was found dead in Shelby Township from an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound.
The shooting resulted in critical injuries, with an eight-year-old boy sustaining a gunshot to the head and a 39-year-old woman being shot in the abdomen and leg. Additionally, a 4-year-old boy was shot in the thigh but was in stable condition. Tragically, the three victims belonged to the same family.
Sheriff Bouchard commended the swift response of law enforcement and the utilization of modern technology that aided in preventing further casualties following the initial shooting at the Auburn Road splash pad in Rochester Hills. The suspect had fired multiple rounds from a .9-mm Glock before taking his own life.
Law enforcement’s quick actions, including the use of drones and SWAT teams, led to the containment of the suspect in his residence. The sheriff emphasized that the shooting appeared to be random, with no apparent connection between the gunman and the victims. Furthermore, it was noted that the suspect had previously faced mental health challenges.
U.S. Rep. John James, along with local officials, expressed their shock and dismay at the senseless violence that occurred in the community. The incident took place near a middle school and popular parks, adding to the devastation felt by residents and officials in the wake of the tragedy.
As investigations continue into the motive behind the shooting, residents and officials are left grappling with the aftermath of yet another mass shooting in Oakland County. The community remains on edge as authorities work to ensure the safety and well-being of its residents in the aftermath of the tragic event.