One teen dead, another wounded in shooting at Michigan State Fair

Sept. 1 (UPI) -- A 14-year-old boy is dead and another wounded after a shooting in a parking lot at the Michigan State Fair in Novi, a suburban of Detroit, authorities reported.

Novi police said on social media that the shooting was an isolated event but other social media posts showed fairgoers scrambling from the scene. The incident happened just before 10 pm. Saturday, police said.

"Two victims were transported to a local hospital; one passed away from injuries. There is no threat to the community," the police said in the statement.

"I am angered by the senseless death of a 14 year old boy and the injuring of another," U.S. Rep. Debbie Dingell posted Sunday morning on X . "Once again a community wakes worried about its safety and is asking why. ... Our thoughts are with the victims' families. 14 is a child. One life gone before ever having the opportunity to reach his potential, and another scarred for life. Senseless, disturbing, and again we ask why."

Police initially treated the event as an active shooter event and dispatched officers accordingly, but soon downgraded the response to an isolated incident.

"The Michigan State Fair and community law enforcement partners are committed to the safety of the guests and participants, the fair said in a news release . "Safety is the top priority and the State Fair had increased safety measures in place including weapons detection systems and increased police presence onsite."

Organizers said the Michigan State Fair will operate Sunday "with even further additional police presence and important adjustments to the closing hours and policies."

The Fair will close entry at 6 p.m. Sunday and Monday, three hours earlier than usual. Anyone under the age of 18 will have to be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian, the Fair said.

The Michigan State Fair debuted in 1849 at a different location.