ROCHESTER HILLS, Michigan – A tragic incident unfolded at a splash pad park in Rochester Hills, Michigan, when a 42-year-old gunman unleashed a barrage of nearly 30 rounds, injuring nine people, including two children and a pregnant woman. The suspect, identified as Michael William Nash, was found dead by suicide near the Brooklands Plaza Splash Pad on Saturday evening.
The victims, ranging in age from 4 to 78, suffered gunshot wounds as a result of the random shooting. Among the injured were an 8-year-old boy who was in critical condition after being struck in the head, a 4-year-old boy in stable condition with a thigh injury, and a 39-year-old mother in critical condition with injuries to her abdomen and legs.
Authorities reported that the suspect fired 28 rounds and then fled the scene before officers arrived within 2 minutes. Oakland County Sheriff Mike Bouchard stated that Nash had no criminal history and was living with his mother at the time of the incident.
In a heartbreaking turn of events, a Rochester Hills couple, Micayla and Eric Coughlin, were both shot multiple times while protecting their two young children. The family had just arrived at the splash pad after getting ice cream, becoming unintended victims of the senseless violence.
Following the shooting, Nash was later found dead in his residence in Shelby Township by authorities who had surrounded the property. The tragic incident has left the community in shock and mourning, with local officials offering counseling services to those impacted by the shooting.
As the investigation continues, the Rochester Hills Mayor Brian Barnett expressed his disbelief over the tragedy, emphasizing the need for support and unity in the face of such horrific events. Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer also offered her condolences and assured that they were closely monitoring the situation as details unfolded.