Multiple Suspects on the Run After Shooting

What began as a car crash into a creek ended with the investigation of an 18-year-old's murder and sheriff's deputies surrounding a building in Kent County.

18-Year-Old Crashes Into Creek in Gaines Township

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Just before 1 a.m. Monday, the Kent County Sheriff's Office received a report of a vehicle that had crashed in Gaines Township. Authorities have not said whether the call came from the driver, a witness, or a passerby.

When sheriff's deputies arrived, they found an 18-year-old dead behind the wheel of the crashed vehicle. Investigators believe the driver died from a gunshot wound after someone fired shots from outside the vehicle.

Read More: 11-Year-Old Scout Killed During Camp Outing

According to WOOD TV8, investigators said it is "too early to tell" whether the victim was randomly targeted or intentionally singled out in the shooting. Anyone with information is asked to contact the Kent County Sheriff's Office at 616-632-6125 or Silent Observer at 616-774-2345.

Manhunt Underway for Multiple Suspects Involved in Shooting

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WOOD TV8 reported that sheriff's deputies reviewed neighborhood surveillance footage and identified individuals they believe may be connected to the shooting. Investigators said the footage appeared to show the suspects running into a nearby home, helping deputies narrow their search to that area.

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Authorities say they believe they know how many suspects they are searching for, but investigators have not yet determined which, if any, were directly involved in the shooting. A large law enforcement presence remains around a building on 79th Street SE, with the Kent County Sheriff's Office, Michigan State Police, tactical response teams, armored vehicles, and drones assisting in the operation.

The law enforcement presence had significantly diminished by 11 a.m., and the Kent County Sheriff's Office had not announced whether any suspects or persons of interest had been taken into custody.

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