BIG RAPIDS (WWJ) – A suspect is in custody as the investigation into a shootout during a large gathering near the campus of Ferris State University in Big Rapids continues.
Officials with the Mecosta County Sheriff’s Office say dozens of shots were fired as “several hundred” people gathered in the parking lot of an apartment complex around 3 a.m. Saturday. A 21-year-old woman was hit by gunfire.
Sheriff’s deputies were able to identify one of three suspected shooters through numerous interviews with suspects, officials announced Sunday afternoon.
Deputies and other agencies were able to arrest the suspect after getting a search warrant for his residence and the car he was driving after the shooting.
Authorities have not released the suspect’s name or age, pending arraignment. It was not immediately clear what charges he will face. It was also not clear whether he is a student at Ferris State.
Police are searching for at least two more shooters.
While it’s not exactly clear what prompted the shootout early Saturday morning, the sheriff’s office says 40 shell casings from at least three different caliber guns were recovered at the scene.
The 21-year-old victim was released from the hospital after being treated for non-life-threatening injuries. It was not immediately clear whether she is a student at the school.
Authorities have not reported any other injuries sustained in the shooting, though officials say several cars were damaged and multiple apartments were hit by gunfire.
Deputies are still asking for the public’s help in identifying the remaining suspects. Anyone who was there or has video or photos of the incident is asked to come forward by emailing tips@mecostasheriff.org or calling the sheriff’s office at 231-592-0150.
Deputies were assisted at the scene by the Big Rapids Department of Public Safety, Ferris State University Police, Mecosta County EMS, and Meceola Central Dispatch.
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