The joy of a high school graduation ceremony at the Arts and Technology Academy of Pontiac was nearly shattered by a chilling plot that could have turned a moment of celebration into tragedy. On June 3, 2025, at the United Wholesale Mortgage Sports Complex in Pontiac, Michigan, a swift response from the Oakland County Sheriff’s Office and vigilant security personnel averted what authorities believe was a planned mass shooting. The incident, which unfolded during a seemingly routine altercation, has left the community shaken but grateful for the quick actions that prevented a catastrophe.
The sequence of events began when deputies were dispatched at approximately 6:40 p.m. to address a fight that broke out during the graduation ceremony. As security personnel investigated the individuals involved, they noticed suspicious activity captured on surveillance footage: two young men placing packages under vehicles in the parking lot. This discovery prompted a deeper investigation, which revealed a far more sinister intent. A concerned individual approached deputies at the scene, relaying critical information from a family member who had seen a threat posted on Snapchat, warning of a plan to “shoot up” the graduation ceremony. This tip, combined with the security team’s observations, led to the recovery of two loaded firearms—an AR-style pistol and a Glock semi-automatic handgun—both equipped with high-capacity magazines containing a total of 80 rounds of ammunition. Sheriff Michael Bouchard described the find as alarming, noting that the weapons were fully loaded, with one round in the chamber, ready to unleash devastating firepower into the crowded event.
Authorities arrested 19-year-old Deahveon Shamar-James Whaley, a Pontiac resident, at the scene after he attempted to flee. Whaley, who is now in custody at the Oakland County Jail, faces serious charges as the investigation continues. The second suspect, 20-year-old Jamarion Jaryante Hardiman, also from Pontiac, remains at large. Sheriff Bouchard emphasized that Hardiman, currently on probation for a prior weapons offense, is considered a person of interest in the plot. Both suspects have a documented history of involvement with weapons and violence, according to the sheriff, and their connection to the school was through friends and relatives rather than as students. The motive behind the planned attack remains unclear, though Bouchard noted that ongoing disputes with individuals in the community may have played a role. He expressed frustration at the difficulty of pinpointing motives in such cases, stating that some individuals turn to violence as a misguided solution to their grievances.
The incident has struck a nerve in Oakland County, a region still scarred by the memory of the 2021 Oxford High School shooting, where a teenager killed four students and injured seven others. Sheriff Bouchard, reflecting on the close call, underscored the importance of community vigilance in preventing such tragedies. He credited the individual who reported the Snapchat threat, though deputies only learned of it after arriving at the scene. This delay highlights the critical need for immediate reporting of potential threats, a point Bouchard stressed when he urged the public to “see something, say something.” The sheriff’s office is now appealing for information on Hardiman’s whereabouts, urging anyone who spots him to contact 911 immediately.
The response from local officials has been one of gratitude and resolve. Oakland County Executive David Coulter praised the sheriff’s office and the security team for their swift action, which he said undoubtedly saved lives. The incident occurred just a day after Sheriff Bouchard attended an active assailant training conference, reinforcing the importance of preparedness in preventing such events. The recovered firearms, described as unregistered, are now under investigation to trace their origins, adding another layer to the ongoing probe.
For the graduates and their families, what should have been a night of pride and celebration was marred by the specter of violence. Yet, the community’s resilience shines through, bolstered by the knowledge that a potential tragedy was averted through quick thinking and cooperation. As the search for Hardiman continues, authorities remain steadfast in their commitment to ensuring safety and preventing future threats. The incident serves as a sobering reminder of the challenges facing communities nationwide and the vital role of vigilance in protecting public spaces.
