A tragic shooting incident at the Brooklands Splashpad in Rochester Hills on Saturday afternoon left nine people injured before the suspect took his own life, law enforcement officials confirmed.
The shooting occurred at approximately 5:11 p.m. when a 42-year-old man, who had no prior criminal history but was believed to have mental health challenges, began firing at visitors of the splashpad. The suspect used a 9mm pistol and fired up to 28 shots, according to Oakland County Sheriff Michael Bouchard.
Victims and Injuries
The victims included three members of one family: an 8-year-old boy in critical condition with a head wound, a 4-year-old with a thigh wound, and their 39-year-old mother with abdominal injuries, also in critical condition. Other victims include:
- A 39-year-old woman with back and arm wounds, in stable condition.
- A 30-year-old man with a leg wound, in stable condition.
- A 78-year-old man with an abdomen wound, in stable condition.
- A 37-year-old woman with a hand wound, in stable condition.
- A 40-year-old man with a knee wound, in stable condition.
A ninth victim's details have not yet been disclosed.
Response and Resolution
The suspect was contained in a nearby mobile home at Dequindre Estates, resulting in a five-hour standoff. Negotiators and SWAT teams used drones to establish contact before entering and discovering the suspect dead from a self-inflicted gunshot wound. The handgun used was registered to the suspect's residence, where an AR-style rifle was also found.
Law Enforcement and Community Response
Sheriff Bouchard praised the quick response enabled by Live 911 technology, which allowed a sergeant to reach the scene within two minutes of the initial call. Local hospitals are treating the injured, and detectives and victim advocates are supporting the victims and their families.
Statements and Support
Congressman John James and Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer expressed their condolences and support for the victims. Mental health services will be provided by the Oakland Community Health Network for those affected by the incident, available on Sunday at the Rochester Hills Department of Public Services building.
"We're doing everything we possibly can to help the families in need," said Congressman James, highlighting the first responders' efforts in mitigating further harm.
Governor Whitmer shared her heartbreak over the incident on social media, affirming state support and ongoing monitoring of the situation.
This incident follows closely on the heels of another recent tragedy in the area, deepening the community's sorrow and highlighting the urgent need for comprehensive mental health support and gun control measures.
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