The tranquil community of Missaukee County, Michigan, was shattered on Friday when a series of shootings left six people dead, including the suspect, Chad Hickman. The incident, which unfolded across multiple locations, has left the community in mourning and authorities scrambling for answers.
The tragedy began around 11:40 a.m. when Michigan State Police responded to a report of a shooting at a home on South LaChance Road in Lake Township. Upon arrival, officers found three individuals deceased and a 13-year-old girl critically injured. The girl was rushed to the hospital and has since been upgraded to stable condition.
The Search for the Suspect
The suspect, identified as 39-year-old Chad Hickman, fled the scene before police arrived, prompting a large-scale search involving K-9 units and the MSP Emergency Support Team. As the search continued, a fourth victim, a 53-year-old man, was found dead at a separate home in Missaukee County.
Hickman’s vehicle was later located near a wooded area close to Whitlock Lake in Caldwell Township. Tragically, Hickman and another victim, a 29-year-old woman, were found dead in the woods. The discoveries brought the total death toll to six, including Hickman.
The Victims
The victims ranged in age from 16 to 53. Three individuals—a 45-year-old man, a 40-year-old woman, and a 16-year-old boy—were found dead at the initial residence on South LaChance Road. The 53-year-old man was discovered at the second home, while the 29-year-old woman was found alongside Hickman in the wooded area.
All five deceased victims suffered fatal gunshot wounds. The 13-year-old girl, who survived the attack, remains in stable condition. Authorities have not yet publicly released the victims’ names or established a motive for the shootings.
The Suspect’s Background
Chad Hickman, the suspected gunman, had a troubled past. In 2026, he was convicted of misdemeanor fourth-degree child abuse and contributing to the delinquency of a minor. The charges stemmed from an incident dating back to 2010. More serious charges, including assault and criminal sexual conduct, were dismissed.
Hickman’s history also included contentious divorce proceedings with allegations of domestic violence, control, and coercion. However, authorities have not yet determined if these past issues were related to the recent shootings.
Neighbors, like Tim Penrose, who lived near Hickman, reported frequent harassment and heard gunfire but did not initially think much of it due to the rural setting where gunfire is not uncommon. Penrose’s statements highlight the complex dynamics within the community.
Gov. Gretchen Whitmer expressed her condolences, stating, “My thoughts are with the victims, their families, and the Missaukee community.” The investigation remains ongoing, with authorities committed to uncovering the truth behind this tragic event.
