Possible Mass Shooting at Michigan Graduation Thwarted; Loaded Guns Recovered, One Suspect Remains at Large

Possible Mass Shooting at Michigan Graduation Thwarted; Loaded Guns Recovered, One Suspect Remains at Large

PONTIAC, MI — A potential mass shooting at a high school graduation ceremony in Michigan was narrowly averted thanks to a crucial tip and swift law enforcement response. The incident unfolded during the Arts and Technology Academy of Pontiac’s graduation celebration on Tuesday, June 3, at a private venue in Pontiac.

According to Oakland County Sheriff Michael Bouchard, deputies were initially dispatched to the venue in response to a physical altercation that broke out during the event. While handling the situation, a bystander approached officers and shared alarming information: a family member had seen a Snapchat post warning of a possible plan to “shoot up” the graduation.

That tip sparked an immediate investigation. Law enforcement officers began combing the area and quickly discovered two loaded firearms, both equipped with high-capacity magazines, hidden beneath vehicles in the parking lot. The discovery led authorities to conclude that a potential mass shooting had been planned and may have been moments away from unfolding.

“We probably prevented a mass shooting,” Sheriff Bouchard stated during a press conference on Friday. “It’s terrifying how close we may have come to another tragedy.”

As the investigation advanced, authorities arrested 19-year-old Deahveon Shamar-James Whaley in connection with the incident. A second suspect, 20-year-old Jamarion Jaryante Hardiman, remains at large and is the focus of an active manhunt.

Both men have a history of violence and weapons-related offenses, according to Bouchard, and neither was enrolled at the Arts and Technology Academy. However, they are believed to have ties to the school community through friends and relatives and were reportedly involved in ongoing disputes with others in the area.

“This was not a random act,” Bouchard explained. “These individuals came with intent, and had someone not spoken up, we could be talking today about lives lost instead of lives saved.”

The sheriff also referenced the tragic 2021 mass shooting at Oxford High School—located in the same county—as a stark reminder of the ever-present threat of gun violence in schools. That shooting claimed four student lives and injured seven others.

“This incident is a chilling reminder that we must all stay vigilant. If you see something, say something,” Bouchard emphasized. “In this case, someone saw the Snapchat post, and that information may have saved lives.”

Law enforcement is urging anyone with information on the whereabouts of Jamarion Hardiman to call 911 immediately. Authorities warn that he may be armed and should not be approached.

The investigation remains ongoing. The Oakland County Sheriff’s Office continues to work in collaboration with local and federal partners to ensure the safety of schools and communities across the region.