Sheriff says deputy killed in line of duty was ambushed while pursuing stolen car

OAKLAND COUNTY, MI — An Oakland County sheriff’s deputy was pursuing a stolen vehicle when he was fatally shot in an ambush, the sheriff said.

The deputy killed was identified as Bradley J. Reckling. He had worked for the department for nine years.

Oakland County Sheriff Michael Bouchard updated the media on Sunday afternoon, June 23, about Reckling, who was shot and killed Saturday evening.

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On Saturday, June 22, a series of events occurred that ultimately led to the fatal confrontation.

The sheriff said a vehicle was stolen in Rochester Hills on Saturday between 1 and 5 p.m. Detectives with the Oakland County Sheriff’s Office began searching for the vehicle in the Detroit area.

Reckling found the stolen vehicle near Park Grove Street and Schoenherr Road. The vehicle stopped abruptly, three people got out and opened fire on Reckling.

“It was an ambush,” Bouchard said.

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Reckling was hit by gunshots in the head, chest and torso, the sheriff said.

A cordon was immediately set up and three suspects were arrested, Bouchard said. He said his agency was shaken by the incident.

Reckling was described as a loving husband, father and great friend who loved to hunt. Reckling leaves behind a wife, three young children and a fourth child on the way, Bouchard said. The sheriff asked the community to pray for Reckling’s family.