By Joseph Buczek, Nick Lentz
Updated on: September 1, 2024 / 7:14 PM EDT / CBS Detroit
(CBS DETROIT) — An investigation is ongoing after a 14-year-old was killed and another was injured in a shooting near the Michigan State Fair in Novi Saturday night.
Novi police say at about 9:56 p.m. Saturday, officers at the Michigan State Fair heard gunshots in the southwest area of the Suburban Collection Showplace in the parking lot near Grand River Avenue. The incident was initially reported as an active shooter, prompting a large response from surrounding law enforcement agencies.
Two 14-year-olds were taken to an area hospital for treatment. One died as a result of their injuries, while the other remains hospitalized in stable condition.
Police believe the two victims took an Uber from Detroit to Farmington Hills and then a second Uber from Farmington Hills to the fairgrounds with friends. Police say the shooting stemmed from an argument that took place throughout the week in other communities and carried over to their arrival at the fair’s parking lot Saturday night.
A suspect has not been identified.
Anyone with information regarding the incident is asked to contact the Novi Police Department at 248-348-7100.
The Novi Police Department is leading the investigation with assistance from Michigan State Police and the Oakland County Sheriff’s office.
The Michigan State Fair operations team said the fair will continue with additional police presence and adjusted entry policies and operating hours. The fairgrounds will close at 7 p.m. Sunday and Monday, and anyone under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian. The fair’s box office and entry will close at 6 p.m. on both days.
“The entire Michigan State Fair family grieves for the loss of such a young life and for all those affected,” the fair said in a statement. “The Michigan State Fair and community law enforcement partners are committed to the safety of the guests and participants. Safety is the top priority and the State Fair had increased safety measures in place including weapons detection systems and increased police presence onsite.”
“The Michigan State Fair is continuing this effort on behalf of the vital agricultural and livestock community and to honor and carry on the commitment to revive the great tradition of the Michigan State Fair.”
“Those who desire a refund, who have not yet scanned their ticket yet, can contact the Michigan State Fair.”
Michigan officials react
State and U.S. officials who represent the Novi area responded to the shooting Sunday morning.
In Facebook post, State Representative Kelly Breen said she had left the fair with her son and cousin shortly before the shooting.
“This horrific act of violence does NOT define our community,” she said in the post.
Democratic Representative Debbie Dingell said in an X post that she’s in close communication with local officials and “angered with the senseless death of a 14-year-old boy.”
