Deadly Shooting at Royal Oak Township Park: 44-Year-Old Man Killed, Three Others Wounded During Late-Night Party

ROYAL OAK TOWNSHIP, MI — A summer night meant for fun and celebration ended in tragedy early Sunday when gunfire erupted at a party in Royal Oak Township Park, leaving one man dead and three others wounded. The Michigan State Police have launched a full-scale investigation into the incident, which occurred just before 2 a.m., as family, friends, and the wider community search for answers and justice.

According to investigators, the shooting unfolded during a large gathering at the park near Northend Avenue and Wyoming Avenue. As dozens of partygoers enjoyed the outdoor celebration, an altercation is believed to have escalated into violence—culminating in a flurry of gunshots that sent people running for their lives.

When troopers arrived at the scene, they found a 44-year-old man from Detroit suffering from a gunshot wound to the head. He was immediately transported to a nearby hospital, but despite emergency medical efforts, he was pronounced dead. Authorities have not yet released the victim’s name, pending notification of next of kin.

Three other individuals were also struck by gunfire:

• A 33-year-old man from Detroit
• A 19-year-old man from Detroit
• A 15-year-old male from Macomb County

All three were taken to local hospitals for treatment. As of Sunday evening, police have not disclosed the severity of their injuries, but all were reported to be alive.

In the hours following the shooting, law enforcement cordoned off the park and collected evidence, including shell casings and personal items left behind during the chaotic evacuation. Crime scene investigators and troopers canvassed the area, but no arrests have been made.

Michigan State Police officials said that despite the large number of people present during the shooting, many individuals have been hesitant or unwilling to cooperate with investigators. That silence has frustrated efforts to identify the shooter or determine a clear motive.

“We need the public’s help,” a department spokesperson said. “We know there were many witnesses at the park. If anyone saw what happened or has cellphone video, please come forward. One person has lost their life, and others are seriously hurt. This can’t go unanswered.”

Community leaders are also calling for action. They’ve urged neighbors and residents to support the investigation and help reclaim the park as a safe space.

“This is a space for our children and families, not for violence,” one local resident told reporters. “We cannot allow this to be the new normal. Someone knows who did this, and they need to speak up.”

Royal Oak Township officials have not yet indicated whether additional security measures will be implemented at local parks in response to the incident.

The Michigan State Police are continuing to interview witnesses and review any available surveillance footage from the surrounding area. Anyone with information is urged to call the MSP Metro South Post at 1-855-MICH-TIP or submit a tip anonymously via Crime Stoppers.

As a grieving family prepares to bury their loved one, the Royal Oak Township community is left mourning, searching for justice, and asking how a celebration turned into another tragic headline.

If you have information that can help investigators, call 1-855-MICH-TIP or visit www.michigan.gov/michtip.