Five people, suspect dead after series of shootings in Michigan

Five people and a suspected gunman were killed in a series of shootings in Michigan on Friday, authorities said, after police carried out an extensive search across several locations.

Michigan State Police said officers responded shortly before noon to reports of a shooting at a home in Missaukee County, about 270 kilometres (170 miles) northwest of Detroit. Three people were found dead at the scene, and a fourth person was critically injured and taken to hospital, according to The Associated Press.

Police identified the suspect as 39-year-old Chad Hickman, who had fled before officers arrived. Authorities launched a large-scale search involving two homes and a wooded area.

Police later found a fourth victim dead at another home during the search. Hickman’s vehicle was subsequently discovered in a wooded area near Whitlock Lake, leading authorities to the bodies of the suspect and another person.

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

“This situation is heartbreaking for the community and challenging for the investigators involved,” Lt. Ashley Miller said in a statement.

She added that investigators would work through the night to process each crime scene.

Authorities urged residents to stay away from the areas where the shootings occurred.

The identities and ages of those killed had not been released pending notification of their families.

Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer said she had been briefed on the incident and was monitoring the situation.

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

By Sabina Mammadli