Oakland County Sheriff’s Deputy Bradley Reckling was tragically killed on Saturday night, June 22, 2024, in Detroit, Michigan while investigating a stolen vehicle. The incident, described by Oakland County Sheriff Michael Bouchard as an ambush, has left the community in mourning and has highlighted the dangers faced by law enforcement officers.
Deputy Reckling, a 30-year-old detective, tracked a stolen 2022 Chevy Equinox reported earlier from Red Oaks Waterpark in Madison Heights. According to the preliminary investigation, Reckling followed the vehicle in an unmarked car when it stopped near Schoenherr and Park Grove streets. As he approached, several individuals exited the vehicle and opened fire, hitting him in the head and chest. Despite the quick response from Detroit police and Michigan State Police, who set up a perimeter around the area, Reckling died from his injuries.
Sheriff Bouchard expressed the gravity of the loss during a press conference on Sunday. He stated that the detectives were doing their job, following a lead on a recently stolen vehicle. “This scenario ended up being completely different. That’s the unpredictable nature of this work. You never know which day will turn into that day.”
Reckling, who had been with the Oakland County Sheriff’s Office for nine years, leaves behind a wife and three young children, with a fourth on the way. His death has brought a wave of grief across the community. “You can see the profound emotional impact on our team just by looking at their faces and eyes,” Bouchard emphasized, highlighting the significant emotional toll on the department.
The suspects involved in the shooting were apprehended at the scene. The Detroit Police Department is leading the investigation, working to understand the full details of the ambush and bring justice for Reckling and his family. “Our goal is to support them,” stated Bouchard, urging the community to support Reckling’s family through donations to the Mission Oakland charity, raising funds to provide financial assistance.
This tragic event follows another recent violent incident in the area, where a gunman opened fire at a splash pad park in Rochester Hills, injuring nine people. Sheriff Bouchard highlighted the recurring trauma faced by law enforcement officers and the necessity for mental health and crisis debriefing resources. “Many people discuss healing, but I don’t believe the victims of Oxford, MSU, the splash pad, or the everyday victims we encounter truly ‘heal.’ They learn to manage, take steps forward, and continue with life,” Bouchard said. He emphasized the critical need for providing support to officers to help them handle the psychological challenges of their work.
Reckling’s commitment to his duties and community was evident throughout his career. He was known as a dedicated detective who loved the outdoors, fishing, deer hunting, and remodeling his home. His colleagues and friends have shared memories of his dedication and his positive impact on those around him.
The Oakland County community and law enforcement agencies across Michigan struggle to deal with the loss of Deputy Bradley Reckling.