Rochester Hills, Michigan – A tragic incident unfolded at a splash pad in suburban Detroit on Saturday, leaving eight people injured after shots were fired. The suspected gunman, who opened fire at the Brooklands Plaza Splash Pad, is also reported dead by authorities. The suspected gunman died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound, according to the Oakland County Sheriff’s Office.
The sheriff’s office revealed that eight individuals, including two children, sustained injuries during the shooting. Initially, authorities had estimated the number of injured individuals to be “nine or 10.” However, upon further investigation, the count was revised after consulting with local hospitals. Oakland County Sheriff Mike Bouchard reported that “nine, maybe 10” people were injured in the tragic incident at the water park.
The shooting, believed to be random, occurred when the shooter exited a vehicle and began firing at the splash pad around 5:11 p.m. EDT. The suspect was reported to have reloaded several times during the incident, with investigators recovering a 9mm Glock semiautomatic handgun and three empty magazines at the scene. Authorities estimated that around 28 shots were fired.
Expressing deep sadness over the event, Rochester Hills Mayor Bryan K. Barnett conveyed his condolences to the affected families. U.S. Rep. John James, R-Farmington Hills, emphasized the heart-wrenching nature of spending Father’s Day in the hospital for some individuals affected by the tragedy.
Following the shooting, the area surrounding the splash pad was designated as an active crime scene by the Oakland County Sheriff’s Office. Despite reports of numerous wounded victims, authorities advised the public to stay away from the area. The investigation into the incident is currently ongoing, with law enforcement officials from the Rochester Hills Sub Station of the Oakland County Sheriff’s Office leading the efforts.
Details regarding the motive behind the shooting or specifics about the injured individuals have not been disclosed at this time. Located 27 miles north of downtown Detroit, Rochester Hills now grapples with the aftermath of this senseless act of violence that has left a community in shock.