ROYAL OAK, MI – A quiet Thursday afternoon was shattered by gunfire in Royal Oak, where at least one person was fatally shot at an apartment complex near the intersection of Devon Street, Crooks Road, and Normandy, close to 13 Mile.
According to the Royal Oak Police Department, officers were dispatched to the 3800 block of Crooks Road following reports of a shooting. Upon arrival, police confirmed that one individual had been fatally wounded. The identity of the victim has not yet been released pending notification of next of kin.
The scene, which is part of a residential apartment complex, was quickly secured by law enforcement. A large police presence remains in the area as detectives work to piece together the sequence of events that led to the fatal shooting. Officers have cordoned off portions of the complex with crime scene tape, and forensic units were observed collecting evidence at the scene.
Royal Oak Police issued a brief public statement in response to inquiries:
“We are conducting an active police investigation in the 3800 block of Crooks Rd. There is no threat to public safety at this time. Expect a large police presence. Please avoid the area until further notice.”
As of Thursday evening, no arrests had been announced, and police had not confirmed whether a suspect was in custody or at large. Authorities are urging anyone with information about the incident — whether eyewitness accounts, surveillance footage, or other leads — to come forward and assist investigators.
The Royal Oak community has reacted with shock and concern, as violent incidents such as this are rare in the area. Neighbors reported hearing a commotion shortly before officers arrived, with some expressing fear and confusion over the heavy police activity.
“It’s heartbreaking. You never expect something like this to happen right outside your door,” one resident said. “We just hope the police can find out what happened and bring justice to whoever was involved.”
The identity of the victim, the motive behind the shooting, and any connection between the parties involved remain part of the ongoing investigation.
This is a developing story. More information will be provided as it becomes available.
Anyone with tips or relevant details is urged to contact the Royal Oak Police Department at (248) 246-3500 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-SPEAK-UP. Callers may remain anonymous.
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