Police released this sketch of a man they believe has been firing upon motorists in three Michigan counties this month.
A 1998 Toyota Camry
A 1998 Oldsmobile Alero
By Robin Schwartz FOX 2 News
WIXOM, Mich. (WJBK) - Police released a sketch Sunday of a suspected shooter they believe is randomly firing at cars. As many as 16 incidents have been reported in three counties. So far, no one's been hurt. But, police want to stop the shooter before he strikes again.
Click on the video player to watch Robin Schwartz's report.
Police say a witness account of one shooting helped them compile a forensic sketch of a man they believe may be responsible for the recent shootings in Oakland, Livingston and Ingham counties. The incidents were reported between 7 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 16 and 6:40 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 18. Eight took place in Wixom striking fear in the hearts of neighbors and parents of young children.
"If he can shoot randomly at just anywhere at anyone anywhere I'm not safe," said Donna Gage. "Neither is my family."
Gage is one parent who kept her children home from school Friday while a task force including Wixom Police, State Police, the three county sheriff's departments and the ATF works to track down leads. A witness also says the suspect's vehicle looked like a dark colored 1998 Oldsmobile Alero or a 1998 Toyota Camry. Investigators have hesitated to call the suspect a "sniper."
Walled Lake Consolidated Schools officials say students at schools in Wixom are having indoor recess, and schools' doors are locked on Monday. They're not sure how long the precautionary measures will remain in effect.
"This at first blush looks like somebody that's randomly shooting at people in cars," said Oakland County Sheriff Michael Bouchard. "Fortunately no person has been hit but there have been some very close calls."
In one of those "close calls" a man said he heard bullets whiz right past his head. Police say the shots seem to be coming from a car and in some cases a moving car. The sheriff says it's just luck that no one's been hurt or killed. Police hope by circulating the sketch they'll generate new leads. They've beefed up patrols along I-96. No new shootings have been reported.
If you recognize the suspect in the sketch or have any information call CrimeStoppers at 1-800-SPEAKUP (1-800-773-2587)
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