The man found dead at Proud Lake State Recreation Area was murdered, according to detectives investigating the case — and the shooter is at-large.
The body of Andre Sontay Avant Jr., 19, of Inkster, was discovered early Monday near the park’s boat launch off Wixom Road in Commerce Township. The Oakland County Medical Examiner’s Office conducted an autopsy and concluded the cause of death was a gunshot wound and the manner of death was homicide, officials said.
The victim has been identified as Andre Sontay Avant Jr., 19, of Inkster (photo shared by Oakland County Sheriff’s Office)
“This was a brutal and senseless homicide that has left a family and community searching for answers,” Oakland County Sheriff Michael Bouchard stated in a news release. “We are committed to pursuing justice for this individual and holding every person involved fully accountable. We need the public’s help — if you saw anything suspicious in the area or have any information, no matter how small it may seem, please come forward. There is a reward being offered, and your information could be the key to bringing those responsible to justice.”
A park visitor discovered Avant’s body and notified deputies shortly before 9 a.m., the sheriff’s office said.
As an investigation continues, anyone with information about the shooting, or who may have seen Avant on Sunday or early Monday, is asked to call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-SPEAK-UP. Crime Stoppers is offering a reward of up to $2,000 for information leading to an arrest in the case. Tipsters remain anonymous.
Proud Lake State Recreation Area has entrances off Glengary Road and Wixom Road.