U.S. Shootings
Up to 10 people shot at Rochester Hills splash pad
Shooter Found Dead; Wounded Victims Include Two Boys
ROCHESTER HILLS, Mich. – In a tragic turn of events, a shooting at the Brooklands Plaza Splash Pad in Rochester Hills, Michigan, left at least nine people injured, including two young boys, before the suspect was found dead. The incident, which occurred on Saturday, June 15, has left the community in shock and mourning.
The shooting began shortly after 5 p.m. when the suspect, armed with a 9-mm Glock handgun, arrived at the splash pad, exited his vehicle, and began firing indiscriminately into the crowded area. Witnesses reported hearing multiple gunshots as the suspect reloaded his weapon several times, ultimately firing approximately 28 rounds. The chaotic scene left families and children scrambling for cover as the gunfire erupted.
Oakland County Sheriff Michael Bouchard provided a preliminary report during a press conference held at 7:30 p.m. He described the shooting as a seemingly random act of violence, with no known connection between the suspect and the victims. "This is a devastating turn of events for us in Oakland County," Bouchard stated. "We've only just begun to process the Oxford High School shooting tragedy, and now we're confronted with another senseless act of violence. Our community is reeling."
The victims, who included two young boys and their mother, were transported to four area hospitals for treatment. An eight-year-old child was reported to be in critical condition. The full extent of the injuries and the conditions of the other victims were still being assessed by medical personnel.
As the shooting unfolded, law enforcement officers quickly responded to the scene. A massive police presence, including units from the Oakland County Sheriff's Office, was deployed along Auburn Road between Dequindre and John R roads. The area, which had recently undergone an upgrade in streetscape, including the splash pad, was cordoned off as officers worked to secure the scene and locate the suspect.
Initial reports indicated that the suspect had fled the scene and was believed to be hiding in a nearby residence. Law enforcement officers surrounded the house, and SWAT teams were deployed in an attempt to make contact with the individual inside. The situation remained tense as officers worked to ensure the safety of the surrounding community.
By the evening, authorities confirmed that the suspect had been found dead at his home in Shelby Township, approximately 15 miles from the scene of the shooting. The circumstances surrounding the suspect's death were not immediately clear, but it was reported that he had died by suicide. The discovery of the suspect's body brought some relief to the community, but the pain and trauma of the day's events lingered.
The city of Rochester Hills, a suburb located about 25 miles north of Detroit, is known for its family-friendly atmosphere and community-oriented events. The splash pad, a popular recreational area for children, had been a place of joy and laughter until the tragic events of Saturday.
In the aftermath of the shooting, the city of Rochester Hills posted an update on social media, lifting the shelter-in-place order that had been issued earlier in the day. "The shelter in place has been lifted," the post read. "We are still asking people to avoid the area of Auburn between Dequindre and Culbertson."
As investigators continue to piece together the details of the shooting, the community is left grappling with the senseless violence that has shattered their sense of security. Victim impact advocates and detectives are working with the families affected by the tragedy, providing support and gathering information to understand the full impact of the incident.
The Brooklands Plaza Splash Pad shooting is a stark reminder of the ongoing issue of gun violence in the United States. As the community of Rochester Hills comes to terms with the events of June 15, they are united in their grief and determination to support one another through this difficult time. The investigation into the shooting is ongoing, and authorities are urging anyone with information to come forward as they seek to understand the motives behind this devastating act.