ROCHESTER HILLS, Mich. – In a heartbreaking turn of events, a shooting at a splash pad in Rochester Hills, Michigan left nine people injured, with victims including two young children and their mother. Law enforcement officials tracked down a suspect to a nearby residence, where he died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound.
Oakland County Sheriff Mike Bouchard shared during a news conference that an 8-year-old boy was in critical condition after being shot in the head, while his mother was also in critical condition with wounds to the abdomen and leg. The boy’s 4-year-old brother sustained a leg wound but was reported to be in stable condition.
Initially, authorities believed that up to 10 individuals had suffered from gunshot wounds, but this number was later revised after confirmation from area hospitals. The other six victims, all 30 years and older, were reported to be in stable condition, including a couple and a 78-year-old man.
The incident occurred at a local city park, well-known for its recreational water area where families gather to cool off during the summer. Sheriff Bouchard described the attack as seemingly random, with the shooter driving up to the park, walking to the splash pad, and firing multiple rounds – up to 28 shots – with pauses for reloads.
Eyewitness accounts suggested that the shooter may have used two handguns during the attack, though this information remains unconfirmed. Authorities noted the calm and deliberate nature of the gunman’s actions, as he eventually walked back to his vehicle without haste following the shooting spree.
Responding to the emergency call swiftly, officers were on the scene within minutes and immediately began administering aid to the victims. Through a coordinated effort, law enforcement was able to locate the suspect’s residence, where a drone was deployed to assess the situation before entering and discovering the suspect’s lifeless body.
As the investigation unfolds, authorities have yet to determine a motive for the gunman’s actions. Counseling services have been made available for the community in light of the tragic event, as officials and residents alike grapple with the aftermath of the shooting.
The Rochester Hills community, still reeling from a previous school shooting, now faces another tragic incident that has deeply affected families and residents. With the injured victims in recovery, the hope remains for healing and resilience in the wake of such senseless violence.