Northfield Township police say triple shooting leaves 2 dead in child abduction case
NORTHFIELD TOWNSHIP, Mich. (FOX 2) - Police say two people are dead and a third person hospitalized in a case of child abduction in Northfield Township.
Two children were said to be abducted from the home, although they have been recovered and are safe, while the suspects are in custody.
Just after 8:30 p.m. on New Year’s Day, police responded to a Nollar Bend Drive residence where investigators say Stevie Ray Smith, 74, and Jennifer Lyn Bernhard, 48, of Northfield Township were killed.
A third victim, 52-year-old Jeffrey Alan Bernhard of Northfield Township – remains hospitalized and has been upgraded to stable condition.
"Upon arrival we located two deceased adults in residence and there was another adult suffering from gunshot wounds," said Lt. David Powell, Northfield Township police.
FOX 2 has learned he is the assistant Director for the VA Ann Arbor Healthcare System. The hospital released the following statement:
Jeffrey Alan Bernhard
"We are aware of these horrific events and our hearts are broken for Jeff and his family. We extend our deepest condolences for this unimaginable tragedy."
"I don’t understand what happened and why they did it," said neighbor Bill Shoak.
Police initially said two children were abducted from the house, ages 4 and 7. They are not related. Police would not confirm the information, but neighbors say one is a foster child.
Police worked throughout the evening and three suspects were taken into custody and the children were recovered.
"What saddens me for humanity is, those people were taking care of foster kids," said neighbor Lee Maulbetsch.
Lt. Powell said the children are healthy and safe. No information has been released about the circumstances or suspects pending their arraignment.
And as police worked to take those suspects into custody, they say it was a collaborative effort that made it possible.
As the investigation continues, police are working to get information to the prosecutor’s office for charges.
