Michigan shootings leave six dead, including suspect

A series of shootings in Michigan resulted in the deaths of five victims and the suspected shooter on Friday, authorities said. Police conducted an extensive search across two residences and a nearby wooded area before locating the suspect.

Michigan State Police said officers were called shortly before noon to a home in Missaukee County, roughly 170 miles northwest of Detroit, after receiving reports of gunfire. When officers arrived, they found three people dead and another person critically injured. The injured victim was transported to a hospital.

Police identified the suspected shooter as 39-year-old Chad Hickman, who had left the residence before officers arrived. Authorities launched a large-scale search and later discovered a fourth deceased person at another nearby home.

Police warned residents through a post on X that Hickman was believed to be armed and dangerous and urged people not to approach him.

Investigators eventually located Hickman’s vehicle in a wooded area near Whitlock Lake. The search led officers to the bodies of Hickman and another deceased person, bringing the total number of deaths to six, including the suspect.

“This situation is heartbreaking for the community and challenging for the investigators involved,” Lt. Ashley Miller said. She added that investigators would continue working through the night to examine and process each of the crime scenes.

Authorities asked residents to stay away from the locations connected to the shootings while the investigation continued.

Police had not immediately released the identities or ages of the victims because their families had not yet been notified.

Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer said she had been briefed about the incident and was closely monitoring developments.

“My thoughts are with the victims, their families, and the Missaukee community,” Whitmer said.