Oakland County Sheriff Michael Bouchard has provided an update on the victims of the recent mass shooting at a splash pad in Rochester Hills, Michigan, and addressed a related scam involving a fake GoFundMe page.
Two of the nine victims remain in critical condition following the weekend shooting. Sheriff Bouchard stated that while they are not currently in immediate danger of dying, the situation remains fluid. “Things can change quickly,” Bouchard warned, emphasizing the severity of their injuries. Among the other victims, two have been discharged from the hospital, and a third is expected to be released soon.
The tragic incident saw 36 shell casings recovered from the scene, highlighting the extent of the violence. The shooter, identified as 42-year-old Michael Nash, later took his own life at a mobile home. The motive behind the attack is still under investigation, as police work to piece together the events leading up to the shooting.
In a disturbing turn of events, a fraudulent GoFundMe page was created in the wake of the shooting, purportedly to raise funds for a supposed victim, Kyle J. Thompson, and his family. The page managed to collect over $15,000 before being identified as a scam. Sheriff Bouchard confirmed that neither Thompson nor his family were involved in the shooting.
“Creating a fake fundraiser in the wake of such a tragedy is appalling,” Bouchard stated. The scam was discovered before the perpetrator could profit, and the funds were returned to the donors. GoFundMe has been cooperating with authorities to ensure such fraudulent activities are promptly addressed and prevented in the future.
The Rochester Hills community remains in shock as they grapple with the aftermath of the shooting. Local officials and community leaders have been rallying support for the victims and their families, offering resources and assistance to those affected.
Sheriff Bouchard has urged the public to stay vigilant against scams exploiting tragic events and to verify the legitimacy of fundraising efforts. “In times of crisis, we must come together to support one another, not fall victim to those who seek to take advantage of our goodwill,” he said.
As the investigation continues, authorities are focused on providing updates and ensuring the community remains informed and supported. The sheriff’s office is working closely with local hospitals, victim support groups, and law enforcement agencies to address the needs of the victims and their families.
The tragic shooting at the splash pad and the subsequent scam have left a mark on the Rochester Hills community. As the investigation unfolds, authorities are committed to bringing clarity and justice to those affected while urging the public to remain vigilant and supportive during these challenging times.
