Washtenaw County Sheriff Responds to 'Shots Fired' Near Dexter Schools

The Washtenaw County Sheriff's Department said unauthorized target practice was to blame for a district-wide lockdown that occurred at Dexter Community Schools on Tuesday afternoon.

According to a report released by the sheriff, deputies were dispatched to Dan Hoey Road around 2:30 p.m. after receiving a call that shots were fired in the area of the apartment complex. Due to the proximity of the apartments to Wylie and Bates elementary schools, district officials issued a until deputies could investigate.

While investigating the area, deputies locates several shell casings in a secluded area of the apartment complex and located a male suspect who was questioned about the incident. According to police reports, deputies determined the suspect was using the area for unlicensed target practice.

The incident follows a similar complaint on April 18, when deputies were dispatched to the district's central bus hub following reports of "unknown noises" that were determined to be fireworks.

"Although no evidence was discovered during the investigation last week, we believe the two incidents are related," the sheriff's department said in a press release.

Discharging of a fire arm within the village boundaries is prohibited. Deputies will continue patrolling the area to ensure further illegal activity is not taking place. Anyone who suspects illegal target practice taking place is encouraged to call the Washtenaw County Sheriff's Office at 734-426-0228.