Rochester Hills, Michigan – A tragic incident unfolded over the weekend as nine individuals, including two children, were shot at a splash pad park in Rochester Hills, Michigan on Saturday. The suspect, identified as 42-year-old Michael William Nash, reportedly fired nearly 30 rounds before taking his own life. The chaos ensued near the Brooklands Plaza Splash Pad, about 25 miles north of Detroit.
Law enforcement officials reported that the victims of the shooting ranged in age from 4 to 78 years old. Three of the injured individuals, including an 8-year-old boy, underwent surgery on the same night as the incident, with their conditions remaining undisclosed. The remaining victims were reported to be in stable condition.
Initial investigations suggested that the shooting appeared to be random, with the suspect opening fire at the splash pad park before fleeing the scene. The 8-year-old boy sustained critical injuries to the head, while a 4-year-old boy was struck in the thigh, both requiring medical attention. Additionally, a 39-year-old woman suffered critical injuries to her abdomen and legs.
Officers responding to the incident arrived at the scene promptly, recovering a semi-automatic handgun and three magazines. Furthermore, an AR-15-style rifle was found at the suspect’s residence. Notably, Nash had no prior criminal record and was living with his mother at the time of the shooting.
Following the tragic event, Nash was later discovered at a residence in Shelby Township, where he was found deceased from a self-inflicted gunshot wound. County Executive Director Dave Coulter expressed his dismay over the senseless violence, as the community potentially endeavored to heal from the traumatic event.
Oakland County officials have coordinated with the Oakland County Health Network to provide counseling services for those affected by the shooting. Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer expressed her condolences, emphasizing the importance of community support during such trying times. Reflecting on the harrowing ordeal, Rochester Hills Mayor Brian Barnett expressed shock and sorrow over his community’s experience with such devastating violence.