Neighbor describes prior threats and violence by Missaukee County shooter
A Jennings resident said the man later identified as Chad Hickman had a history of violent behavior and threats, which the neighbor reported to police before the fatal shooting spree.
A quiet Jennings neighborhood was cordoned off on Friday as state police searched for Chad Hickman, who is suspected of killing six people in Missaukee County.
Neighbor Timothy Penrose said he heard gunshots that morning but initially dismissed them because gunfire is common in the area. He later saw a police drone over the house and returned to find the street blocked and three adjacent homes being breached by officers.
Penrose, a marine combat veteran, identified Hickman as his former landlord. He said Hickman had repeatedly threatened violence and was involved in a divorce, while his sister had obtained a personal protection order against him. Penrose told investigators he had called police about Hickman's behavior in the past.
"He has been incredibly violent or making threats of violence, wanting to fight me over the course of the last year, since he got out of jail," Penrose said.
"I feel like a year ago when he got out of jail was a crime against the public," he added.
Penrose expressed that he had not expected the murders, noting that while he anticipated possible fights, he did not foresee a mass shooting. The investigation continues as authorities seek to locate Hickman.