Lansing, MI — A Christmas Eve shooting in Oxford has left one person dead and two others hospitalized, after what authorities are calling a “random” act of violence. The incident occurred around 6:30 p.m. on Tuesday, near the intersection of Ray Road and North Oxford Road.
According to the Oakland County Sheriff’s Office, deputies responded to the scene and found three individuals who had been shot. The victims were quickly transported to local hospitals, but despite efforts to save them, one of the victims succumbed to their injuries on Christmas Day. The other two victims are expected to recover, with authorities confirming they are on the road to physical healing.
Neighbors in the area described hearing at least four rapid gunshots. Tom Binkowski, a local resident, was at home with his family when they heard the shots. “Well, we were just sitting inside watching a holiday program and we heard four very quick gunshots. I mean, it’s pretty distinct when you hear gunshots,” Binkowski said. “It’s Christmas Eve. What are people thinking?”
Sheriff’s investigators believe the shooting was random. The suspect, who was reportedly passing through the area, is said to have gone on a violent spree, targeting multiple locations. Authorities have identified the suspect as a convicted felon with a history of weapons offenses. He was taken into custody shortly after the incident, and a firearm was recovered. Formal charges are pending as the investigation continues.
The shooting took place just steps away from Oxford High School, which has left residents, including Binkowski, shaken. His wife, in particular, has struggled with the traumatic event, feeling particularly vulnerable given the proximity to their home. “Anyone who goes through something like that, I think it’s always going to be there,” Binkowski remarked. “She’s been on the phone with teachers at the school and has been talking about it, seems to help them through it.”
Binkowski and other neighbors speculated that the victims may have been trying to help the suspect, who was reportedly stranded off the road in a vehicle, when the shooting occurred. However, authorities have not confirmed any further details on this theory.
As the investigation unfolds, the Oakland County Sheriff’s Office continues to urge residents to stay vigilant. Meanwhile, the community is left grappling with the shock of the violent act, especially on a night that should have been filled with holiday cheer.
