PONTIAC, MI - A potential mass shooting at a high school graduation in Michigan was thwarted, leading to one arrest and a search for another suspect. The incident unfolded during the graduation ceremony for the Arts and Technology Academy of Pontiac on June 3, held at United Wholesale Mortgage.

Authorities responded to a fight that broke out at the event, which prompted a tip-off about a possible shooting threat. Oakland County Sheriff Michael Bouchard reported that a person approached deputies at the scene, stating that a family member had seen a threatening post on Snapchat.

"A person approached our deputies and gave them information that a family member had told them that they had seen on Snapchat a threat to shoot up this graduation ceremony," Bouchard said during a news conference.

As deputies investigated, they discovered two loaded firearms hidden under cars in the parking lot. The weapons included a Glock handgun and another off-brand firearm, both equipped with high-capacity magazines. Sheriff Bouchard noted, "Just those two weapons, without changing magazines, had 80 rounds of potential firepower. Shooting into a graduation, you can only imagine the outcome of that."

One suspect, 19-year-old Deahveon Shamar-James Whaley, was arrested. Authorities are actively searching for a second suspect, 20-year-old Jamarion Jaryante Hardiman, who is currently on probation for a weapons offense. Both suspects are not students at the charter school but are connected through friends and relatives.

Sheriff Bouchard expressed concern over the close call, stating, "I’m alarmed how close it was, potentially, to being another mass shooting." He urged the public to report any threats, emphasizing the importance of vigilance.

The graduation ceremony continued without further incident after staff and security managed the initial altercation. Oakland County Executive David Coulter praised the swift response of law enforcement, stating, "I am incredibly grateful to the Oakland County Sheriff’s Office and the security team at UWM for their diligence and swift response that prevented a mass shooting and undoubtedly saved lives."

Governor Gretchen Whitmer also acknowledged the situation, expressing gratitude for the first responders' quick actions. Authorities are asking anyone with information about Hardiman's whereabouts to call 911 and advised the public not to approach him. Sheriff Bouchard concluded with a message for Hardiman: "Turn yourself in. One way or another we’re going to get you. Make it easier on yourself and the community."