Full Breakdown
Shooting Spree in Missaukee County Leaves Six Dead, Including Suspect
8/15/2026, 8:16:37 PM
Missaukee County Shooting Spree
On August 14, Michigan State Police responded to a 911 call reporting a shooting at a residence on South LaChance Road in Lake Township, Missaukee County. Troopers found three people dead and a fourth person critically injured, who was taken to a hospital. A fourth deceased individual was later discovered at a second home in the county. During the ensuing search, investigators located the suspect’s vehicle near Whitlock Lake in Caldwell Township and subsequently found the suspect, 39-year-old Chad Hickman, dead in the woods along with another victim. State officials confirmed a total of six deaths, including the suspect, and one person remains in critical condition.
Background on the Suspect
Court records indicate that Hickman, a resident of the Lake City-Jennings area, had a prior criminal history. He was convicted in 2024 of misdemeanor fourth-degree child abuse and contributing to the delinquency of a minor stemming from a 2010 incident. More serious charges—including assault with intent to do great bodily harm and two counts of first-degree criminal sexual conduct—were dismissed. Hickman’s divorce proceedings in 2023 and 2024 revealed allegations of domestic violence and “significant dysfunction and mutual toxicity” within the marriage.
Timeline of Events
- ? 11:40 a.m., August 14 – Troopers dispatched to South LaChance Road; three bodies found, one person critically injured.
- Shortly after – A fourth body discovered at a separate Missaukee County residence.
- Later – Hickman’s vehicle located near Whitlock Lake; Hickman and another victim found dead in the woods.
Casualties and Locations
- Deaths: Six total (five victims + suspect).
- Injured: One person in critical condition.
- Sites: Three locations – the initial home on South LaChance Road, a second home elsewhere in Missaukee County, and a wooded area near Whitlock Lake in Caldwell Township.
Official Statements & Responses
Lt. The agency has asked residents to avoid the three sites while investigators process the scenes. Governor Gretchen Whitmer was briefed on the situation and expressed sympathy for the victims and the community.
Verbatim Quotes
- “This situation is heartbreaking for the community and challenging for the investigators involved,” — Lt. Ashley Miller
- “My thoughts are with the victims, their families, and the Missaukee community,” — Lt. Ashley Miller
- “It is uncontested that this marriage involved allegations and incidents of domestic violence which lie at the heart of the issues before the court,” — Judge Melissa Ransom
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
Early coverage varied on the death toll, with some outlets initially reporting five fatalities and later updates confirming six deaths, including the suspect. Authorities have not released the identities, ages, or genders of the victims, citing ongoing family notifications. The precise manner of death for each victim and the motive behind the shootings remain undetermined.
What’s Next
Michigan State Police have indicated that the investigation remains active, with no additional public threat identified. Updates will be provided as new information becomes available.
