A shooting outside the Michigan State Fair on Saturday night killed one teenager and injured another, according to police. The incident in the fair’s parking lot just before 10 p.m. is being treated as an isolated crime.
The Novi Police Department initially described the situation as an active shooter event, prompting multiple law enforcement agencies to respond significantly. However, authorities later confirmed that the shooting was not part of a broader threat to the community.
“Novi police stated late Saturday on X, formerly Twitter, that there is no threat to the community.”
The victims, both 14-year-old boys, attended the fair with friends. Investigators believe the shooting stemmed from a recent argument. The teenagers were transported to a local hospital, where one was pronounced dead. The other is in stable condition, police said.
A suspect has not yet been identified. The story will be updated with the suspect's name and additional details once they become available.
The incident sparked fear among fairgoers, some of whom took to social media to share their experiences. “My family and I just escaped a shooting at the Michigan State Fair. This is crazy and disgusting,” one person wrote on X. Another user posted, “I was just at the Michigan State Fair, and there was a shooting. This was wild—all I see is people running, and I hear gunshots. Thank God I’m safe, but this was crazy.”
The Novi Police Department responded to and is currently investigating an isolated incident at the Michigan State Fair. Two victims were transported to a local hospital; one passed away from injuries. There is no threat to the community.
— Novi Police Department (@novipolice) September 1, 2024
"The violence from recent block parties has increased to an unacceptable level," Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan said. "Chief White and I have been in constant communication over the past two days, and we have a strategy to ensure block parties in the city are held legally and safely."
In response to the shooting, Michigan State Fair officials announced the event would remain open on Sunday and Monday but with adjusted hours. The fair will open at 10 a.m., with the box office and entry closing at 6 p.m. and the fairgrounds closing at 7 p.m. Additionally, a parent or legal guardian must be present with anyone under 18.
The Michigan State Fair expressed condolences for the young victim. It reiterated its commitment to safety: “The entire Michigan State Fair family grieves for the loss of such a young life and for all affected. The Michigan State Fair and community law enforcement partners are committed to the safety of guests and participants. Safety is the top priority.”
1 dead, 1 injured after shooting at Michigan State Fair in Novi
— Michigan News Source (@MINewsSource) September 1, 2024
Officers at the fair heard gunshots coming from a parking lot near Grand River Avenue, southwest of the Suburban Collection Showplace
Credit: @freep and @rawsalerts pic.twitter.com/cVjtTuTRWk
People reported on X that the shooting occurred around 9:40 p.m. Saturday in the fairgrounds parking lot. A nearly one-minute video posted on the platform shows crowds rushing through the midway, exiting the fair, and a line of police cars outside.
According to the Michigan State Fair website, weapons of any kind—including guns, knives, Tasers, and pocket knives—are prohibited on the fairgrounds, even for those with a concealed weapons license.
The statement highlighted existing safety measures, including weapons detection systems and increased police presence, and noted that additional security measures would be implemented due to the incident.
Fairgoers seeking a refund for unscanned tickets can contact the Michigan State Fair for assistance.
Support us to keep independent environmental journalism alive in India.
Keep Reading
The costliest water from Narmada is putting a financial burden on Indore
Indore’s Ramsar site Sirpur has an STP constructed almost on the lake
Indore Reviving Historic Lakes to Combat Water Crisis, Hurdles Remain
Indore’s residential society saves Rs 5 lakh a month, through rainwater harvesting
Follow Ground Report on X, Instagram and Facebook for environmental and underreported stories from the margins. Give us feedback on our email id [email protected].
Don't forget to Subscribe to our weekly newsletter, Join our community on WhatsApp, and Follow our YouTube Channel for video stories.