Father-of-three cop is shot dead after trailing stolen vehicle in unmarked squad car: ‘It was an ambush’
A police officer, father of three, was shot dead in an ‘ambush’ while chasing a stolen car in Detroit.
Oakland County Sheriff’s Deputy Brad Reckling was following the stolen car in an unmarked police vehicle Saturday evening when the thieves suddenly stopped and started shooting at him.
He was shot multiple times in the head and body and was rushed to hospital, but died from his injuries.
Oakland County Sheriff Michael Bouchard said, “It was an ambush.”
Reckland is survived by his pregnant wife and their three young daughters.
Oakland Detective Brad Reckling was following the stolen car in an unmarked police vehicle on Saturday when the thieves suddenly stopped and started shooting at him
Reckling worked with two other officers from the auto theft unit to search for a stolen 2022 Chevrolet Equinox that had been recovered from a water park earlier that day.
He was driving an unmarked police car when he saw the stolen car in Detroit.
He followed it carefully and then ‘suddenly’ stopped.
Bouchard said, “Individuals exited that stolen vehicle and opened fire on our deputy.
‘That obviously brought about a lot of things. The deputy was struck in the head, chest and torso. The officer’s call went out at 10:50 p.m.’
Detroit police then “flooded the area” and established a perimeter, arresting three people.
The suspects have not yet been named.
Reckling’s colleagues paid tribute to him on Sunday, with his substation commander praising him as “one of the best deputies and detectives I have ever worked with.”
Deputy Nicholas Bohun said, “Brad was always there to lend a helping hand. He loved his family more than anything. He was a great cop, but even a better friend, and father, and husband.”
Reckland is survived by his pregnant wife and their three young daughters
Deputy Matthew Morrison added, “Brad was a loving husband, father and wonderful friend. He loved the outdoors. He was a great fisherman, loved to hunt and enjoyed growing his farm and raising animals.
‘Brad spent several months renovating his house to give his wife and three girls the best place to call home.
“Anyone who knew Brad knows that it doesn’t take long for him to start cracking jokes and making him laugh.
“He was a great worker and a great friend who would do anything for anyone. He was a great example of what it means to be a great parent, spouse and friend, and he is loved and truly missed by many.”
Bouchard called for more resources for the province in the wake of Reckling’s death.
His officers have recently been called to the Rochester Hills shooting, the Oxford High School shooting and the Michigan State University shooting, all of which are taking a toll on the officers’ mental health.