ROCHESTER HILLS, Mich. – A terrifying incident unfolded at the Brooklands Plaza Splash Pad in Rochester Hills when a 42-year-old man went on a shooting spree on a Saturday afternoon, injuring nine people, including two children. The shooting, which police believe was random in nature, occurred just after 5 p.m. on June 15, leaving a community in shock.
According to police reports, the shooter arrived at the splash pad, parked his car, and began firing rounds into the crowded area from the base of the steps leading to the splash pad. He then moved up the steps, reloaded, and continued to shoot from the top of the steps. In total, 28 shots were fired indiscriminately, resulting in several innocent bystanders being wounded.
Among the injured were three members of a family, with a 39-year-old woman and her two sons bearing the brunt of the attack. The woman is in critical condition, while her 8-year-old son, shot in the head, also remains in critical condition. Thankfully, her 4-year-old son is in stable condition. Other victims included individuals ranging from 30 to 78 years old, all of whom were caught in the crossfire.
After multiple reloads, the shooter managed to escape before law enforcement arrived at the scene. However, quick action by an Oakland County sergeant, equipped with Live 911 technology, allowed him to respond promptly, providing aid to the wounded by applying tourniquets and offering critical support.
Following the incident, authorities were able to track down the shooter at a mobile home park in Shelby Township, where he took his own life. The man, who lived with his mother, is believed to have been struggling with mental health challenges, as hinted by family members. Despite having no prior criminal record, his actions have left a community reeling with questions as to why he targeted innocent individuals at a public gathering spot.
As the investigation unfolds, authorities are working to piece together a timeline of events leading up to the shooting and the motives behind the attack. Mental health services have been made available to assist victims, families, and others affected by this senseless act of violence, emphasizing the importance of early intervention and support for individuals grappling with mental health issues.