The tranquil community of Missaukee County Michigan, was shattered on a Friday when a shooting spree left six people dead, including the suspected attacker. Amid the chaos, a 13-year-old girl emerged as an unlikely hero, calling 911 after being shot four times. Her bravery provided critical information that helped authorities identify the gunman, Chad Hickman 39.
The rampage unfolded across three locations, leaving a trail of devastation. The first scene revealed the bodies of a 16-year-old boy a 45-year-old man a 40-year-old woman and the critically injured 13-year-old girl. A 53-year-old man was found deceased at a second home. The final and most chilling discovery was made in a wooded area near Whitlock Lake where Hickman and a 29-year-old woman were found dead.
The Heroic Actions of a Young Survivor
The 13-year-old girl, found in a home in Lake Township managed to call 911 despite her critical condition. Her actions provided investigators with immediate leads, allowing them to identify Hickman swiftly. Lt. Ashley Miller a state police spokesperson, confirmed that the girl’s call was instrumental in the investigation. “We were able to identify him right away,” Miller stated, though she declined to reveal how the identification was made.
The girl was rushed to a hospital, where she was listed in critical condition but stabilized by Saturday. Her resilience and quick thinking have earned her the title of hero from her family and the community. David Everitt the grandfather of two of the victims, praised her bravery in a heartfelt Facebook post. “She is a hero,” he wrote, highlighting her ability to call for help despite her injuries.
The Victims and the Community’s Grief
The victims of this senseless violence include Amanda Everitt 40, and her son Eric 16. Their deaths have left the community in mourning, with many seeking answers and support. David Everitt expressed his grief, stating, “This world just lost two beautiful people and one is clinging to life.” The other victims include a 45-year-old man a 53-year-old man and a 29-year-old woman.
The investigation into the motive behind the shootings is ongoing. Authorities have not yet established a clear connection between Hickman and the victims. However, court records reveal that Hickman had a troubled past, including a 2026 conviction for misdemeanor fourth-degree child abuse. The charges stemmed from a complaint filed by his ex-wife, Katie who initiated divorce proceedings in .
The Aftermath and Community Response
The shooting has left the small community of Missaukee County reeling. With a population of around 15,000, the incident has deeply affected residents. Lt. Ashley Miller acknowledged the community’s shock and grief, stating, “This situation is heartbreaking for the community and challenging for the investigators involved.” She added, “They’re looking for answers, and they want to know why.”
As of Sunday the incident has been recorded as one of the at least 15 mass murders in the US so far this year, according to the Gun Violence Archive. The vast majority of these tragedies involve firearms, sparking renewed calls for federal gun control. However, Congress has yet to enact substantial restrictions.
The community is coming together to support the victims’ families and honor the memory of those lost. Vigils and fundraising efforts have been organized to provide assistance and promote healing. The resilience of the 13-year-old survivor serves as a beacon of hope amidst the tragedy, reminding everyone of the strength and courage that can emerge in the face of adversity.
