OAKLAND COUNTY, MI — Michigan State Police (MSP) are investigating a deadly freeway shooting that occurred on Saturday evening, October 4, 2025, on Interstate 696 (I-696) near Woodward Avenue, leaving two people dead.

According to MSP, troopers responded to reports of shots fired on the westbound lanes of I-696 just after 7 p.m. Upon arriving at the scene, officers found two victims inside a vehicle along the roadway. Both victims were pronounced dead at the scene.

Authorities Investigating the Incident

As of now, authorities have not released the identities of the victims, pending notification of their family members. The investigation is ongoing, with Michigan State Police working to determine the cause and circumstances surrounding the fatal shooting.

To investigate the incident, police closed off the westbound lanes of I-696 at the intersection with I-75. Investigators, along with forensic teams, are currently combing the area for evidence. They are examining the victims’ vehicle, collecting shell casings, and reviewing surveillance footage from nearby traffic and security cameras in hopes of piecing together what happened.

The investigation is being handled by the Second District Special Investigations Section, and MSP has confirmed they are working to establish if the deaths resulted from a targeted shooting, a road rage incident, or some other form of violence.

“This remains an active investigation,” said MSP in an official update. “Detectives are interviewing witnesses and gathering evidence to determine exactly what happened.”

Traffic Disruption and Public Advisory

The investigation led to the closure of a major portion of I-696, causing significant traffic delays during the evening rush. Motorists were diverted to alternate routes while law enforcement and forensic teams continued their work at the scene. Authorities have urged drivers to avoid the area and seek alternative paths until the investigation is complete and the road is cleared.

As of late Saturday night, the westbound lanes of I-696 remained closed as law enforcement continued to process the scene. The closure further impacted local traffic, leading to longer-than-usual travel times for drivers in the area.

Public Assistance Requested

Michigan State Police are asking the public for assistance in their investigation. They are specifically requesting that anyone who was traveling on I-696 between 6:45 p.m. and 7:15 p.m. on Saturday evening and may have witnessed the shooting or captured any dashcam footage to come forward.

Residents and commuters who were in the area are urged to contact the MSP Metro North Post or to call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-SPEAK-UP with any information they may have. The assistance of the public could be crucial in identifying potential suspects or in piecing together key details surrounding the incident.

Investigation Status and Updates

At this stage, authorities have not confirmed whether a suspect vehicle has been identified or if anyone has been taken into custody in relation to the shooting. The investigation is still ongoing, and more updates are expected as law enforcement gathers additional information.

Residents of Oakland County and the surrounding areas are urged to remain patient as the investigation continues, and to stay updated on any new information that will be shared by Michigan State Police.

This remains a developing story, and updates will be provided as more information becomes available.

Conclusion

The shooting on I-696 marks yet another violent incident that has affected the Oakland County area, leading to the tragic deaths of two individuals. As law enforcement works to understand the motive behind the attack, the community remains shaken, and the investigation continues to unfold. The Michigan State Police and local authorities are committed to bringing those responsible to justice, and they continue to rely on the public for information that could assist in their case. The incident also highlights the potential dangers on the road, raising questions about the safety of public spaces and the need for enhanced vigilance in the face of escalating violence.