Three Teens Charged in Oakland County Deputy’s Murder
In the bustling city of Detroit, a tragic chapter unfolded recently, capturing the attention of the community and the broader region. On June 22, 2024, Oakland County Sheriff’s Deputy Bradley Reckling was shot and killed while working undercover on a car theft case. This devastating incident took place when he was trying to recover a stolen vehicle – a 2022 Chevrolet Equinox – that had been reported stolen from the Red Oaks Waterpark.
The Incident
Deputy Reckling was part of an undercover team that was closely monitoring a notorious auto theft ring when he spotted a stolen car in Detroit. As he began to follow the vehicle in an unmarked car, the situation escalated dramatically. Prosecutor Kym Worthy later revealed that the suspects, identified as Raymone Debose, Marquise Goins, and Karim Moore, all 18 years old, opened fire on Reckling, hitting him multiple times, including fatally in the head and torso.
According to Oakland County Sheriff Michael Bouchard, the ambush was sudden and unexpected. The car came to a halt, and without warning, the suspects exited and began shooting at the deputy. Bouchard remarked, “It was an ambush,” highlighting the element of surprise and the dangerous situation Reckling found himself in.
Arrests Made
In a swift response, police from Detroit and the Michigan State Police flooded the area. Three suspects were apprehended within a defined perimeter set up around the crime scene. The Wayne County Prosecutor’s Office has now charged all three teens in connection with this tragic event, which has been categorized as a continuing criminal enterprise, indicating the significant implications of their actions.
As families and community members mourn the loss of Deputy Reckling, local leaders acknowledge that these arrests won’t bring him back but are a necessary step towards finding justice. Prosecutor Worthy emphasized, “Holding the individuals accountable in the senseless murder of Deputy Brad Reckling is one of our highest priorities.” She has expressed gratitude to the law enforcement agencies involved in the case for their thorough investigation.
Impact on the Community
The loss of Deputy Reckling has deeply affected the Oakland County community. He leaves behind a pregnant wife and three young daughters, aged just one, four, and five. Friends and colleagues have come forward to share memories of Reckling, painting a picture of a dedicated law enforcement officer who cared deeply about his family and community.
Colleagues have described him as one of the best deputies they’d ever had the privilege to work with. Many recalled his larger-than-life personality and tireless work ethic. One colleague remarked, “Brad was a great cop, but even a better friend, and father, and husband.” His community remembers him not only for his dedication to the job but also for his love of the outdoors, fishing, and doing what he could to support his family.
As the community grapples with this loss, Sheriff Bouchard has encouraged those who wish to support Reckling’s family during this difficult time to contribute to the Mission Oakland charity, ensuring that every dollar goes directly to the family.
A Path Forward
While the challenges for the community, Reckling’s family, and the law enforcement community are significant, there is a glimmer of hope that this process can lead to some closure. The arraignment for the three suspects is scheduled for Thursday morning, as the legal proceedings begin to unfold in what promises to be a closely watched case.
As more details surface and the community stands together to heal from this tragedy, the remembrance of Deputy Bradley Reckling as a devoted officer, friend, and family man will undoubtedly remain at the heart of conversations across Oakland County.
