MISSAUKEE COUNTY, Mich. — Michigan State Police (MSP) are investigating a multi-location shooting spree in rural Northern Michigan that left six people dead, including the suspected gunman.
Authorities identified the suspect as Chad Hickman, 39, of Lake City. His body was recovered in a heavily wooded area alongside another deceased victim following an extensive multi-agency manhunt across Caldwell and Lake townships.
Multi-Site Crime Scene Spans Missaukee County
Emergency dispatchers received the initial call around 11:40 a.m. reporting a shooting at a residence on South LaChance Road in Lake Township. Responding state troopers discovered three victims dead and a fourth individual critically injured. The wounded survivor was airlifted to a regional hospital for emergency treatment.
As K-9 units, aviation crews, and tactical teams launched a search for Hickman, investigators uncovered additional crime scenes connected to the rampage.
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First Location (Lake Township): Three individuals found deceased at a home on South LaChance Road, with one survivor critically wounded.
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Second Location: A fourth victim discovered dead at a nearby residential home as police tracked Hickman’s movements.
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Third Location (Caldwell Township): Hickman’s vehicle located near Whitlock Lake, leading search teams to the bodies of both Hickman and a fifth shooting victim in a wooded area.
Missaukee County Incident Overview:
• Location: Rural Northern Michigan (Missaukee County / Near Lake City & Cadillac)
• Total Deceased: 6 (5 Victims, 1 Suspect)
• Suspect Identity: Chad Hickman, 39, of Lake City, MI
• Lead Investigating Agency: Michigan State Police (Seventh District)
• Status: Suspect deceased; active multi-scene homicide investigation
State Police Launch Investigation into Cause and Motive
Law enforcement officials have not yet released the names, ages, or relationships of the victims pending formal family notifications. Investigators remain on scene working to determine a motive behind the killings.
Key Updates from Michigan State Police
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Community Shock: MSP Seventh District public information officers described the event as devastating for the rural community of roughly 15,000 residents.
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Road Closures: Tactical teams and forensics units maintained perimeter closures near LaChance Road and Rosted Road while processing evidence.
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Public Assistance: Authorities urge anyone with information regarding Hickman’s movements or interactions prior to the incident to contact Michigan State Police.
Support for Impacted Communities
As Northern Michigan communities grieve the tragedy, state and local law enforcement agencies continue working to provide official updates and support resources to impacted families.
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