A tragic series of shootings on Friday resulted in the deaths of a teenage boy and four adults, prompting law enforcement officials to conduct an extensive search for the gunman. His body was later found in a wooded area alongside one of his victims, according to authorities. A teenage girl survived and is in stable condition.
Chad Hickman, 39, was identified as a suspect in the events that unfolded in Missaukee County. During the weekend, police shared details about the ages and genders of the victims but did not confirm any familial connections between them and the suspect.
Michigan State Police reported that they responded to a call on Friday morning concerning a shooting at a residence approximately 170 miles northwest of Detroit. Officers discovered the bodies of a 16-year-old boy, a 45-year-old man, and a 40-year-old woman. A 13-year-old girl was found in critical condition at the scene.
Hickman fled, leading to a widespread search effort. Authorities subsequently found the body of a 53-year-old man at a different location. Hickman and a 29-year-old woman were later found deceased in woodland areas. All victims suffered fatal gunshot wounds.
This situation is heartbreaking for the community and challenging for the investigators involved,stated Lt. Ashley Miller.
The investigation remains ongoing, Miller added.
According to court documents, Hickman had a prior conviction in 2024 for misdemeanor fourth-degree child abuse and was sentenced to one year in jail. More severe charges of felony assault and criminal sexual conduct were ultimately dismissed.
Tim Penrose, a resident near where the 53-year-old was located, noted that Hickman had lived in that home. Gunfire was heard, yet Penrose did not immediately realize the severity due to the rural setting where such noises are common. He mentioned experiencing harassment by Hickman but did not give further information.
Governor Gretchen Whitmer stated that she was closely following the situation. “My thoughts are with the victims, their families, and the Missaukee community,” she expressed.
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Associated Press writer Hallie Golden contributed to the report. GaNun is part of the Associated Press/Report for America Statehouse News Initiative. Report for America places journalists in local newsrooms to focus on underreported issues.
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