In a tragic turn of events on March 22, 2023, Bernard 'Bernie' Jerome Bugnell, a 69-year-old male, was killed in his Highland Township, Michigan, condominium. The incident unfolded when his son-in-law, Eric Hanson, forcibly entered the residence by shattering a sliding glass door.
Hanson, who was reportedly estranged from his wife, Bernie's daughter, due to ongoing domestic issues, immediately opened fire upon entering the home.
Bernie, a proud Marine veteran, was fatally shot as he attempted to retrieve a weapon to defend his family. The violent rampage continued as Hanson then shot and injured his mother-in-law, Sandra, and his own estranged wife. Present in the home at the time of the horrific event were three children: Hanson's one-year-old and four-year-old, along with an eight-year-old cousin. Fortunately, the children were not physically harmed.
Oakland County Sheriff's deputies responded to 911 calls within minutes. Upon their arrival, they discovered Hanson on a second-floor balcony, physically assaulting his wife. Deputies issued commands for Hanson to cease his attack, but he failed to comply. In order to prevent further harm, the deputies fatally shot Hanson.
The two injured women were transported to local hospitals for treatment and were expected to recover from their injuries. In the wake of the tragedy, family and community members remembered Bernie Bugnell as a hero who made the ultimate sacrifice to protect his loved ones. His nephew, Justin Pullin, spoke of his uncle's protective nature, stating, 'He was a protector and obviously he went out like a hero, and we idolize people like that.' The case is considered closed as the sole suspect in Bernie Bugnell's death is deceased.
