Oakland County sheriff's deputy dies in the line of duty

DETROIT, Michigan — An Oakland County sheriff's deputy was killed in the line of duty, Oakland County Sheriff Michael Bouchard said.

Officials say Deputy Bradley Reckling and two other detectives were investigating the theft of a 2022 Chevrolet Equinox, which was stolen between 1 p.m. and 5:15 p.m. Saturday from Red Oaks Water Park in Madison Heights. The three detectives from the sheriff's office auto theft unit began searching for the vehicle in Detroit.

A preliminary investigation shows Reckling located the stolen vehicle around 10:50 p.m. Saturday in Detroit and was behind it when the driver suddenly stopped and individuals exited the vehicle, opening fire and ambushing the deputy.

Bouchard said Reckling was hit in the head, chest and torso.

Detroit Police and Michigan State Police responded to the scene and established a perimeter. Three individuals were arrested on site.

“Things like this are upsetting,” Bouchard said. “This family has a 5, 4 and 1 year old, and another child on the way. Our mission is to be there for them.”

Bouchard said Reckling, a nine-year veteran, had worked extensively at the sheriff's office's Rochester Hills substation and recently joined its auto theft unit.

Oakland County Executive Dave Coulter released the following statement on Sunday:

“I am heartbroken to learn of the shooting death of one of our Oakland County Sheriff's deputies. Please keep him, his loved ones and his county colleagues in your heart today “I have been in contact with Sheriff Bouchard to offer my support to the employees of the Sheriff's Office during this difficult time.”

This is a developing story.