Three shot to death outside Michigan courthouse

MOUNT PLEASANT, Mich. -- A man shot and killed his ex-wife and two other people in a courthouse parking lot Tuesday, then holed up for several hours inside his home before surrendering, police said.

The shooting was a "domestic-type of deal," said police officer Charles Lyon.

The three victims had been headed to a probation hearing at the Isabella County Courthouse. Lyon said authorities believed they were going to testify against the suspect, Thomas Wendt.

It was not immediately known why the suspect was on probation, but Lyon said he had been in court before for a domestic violence case, among other charges.

"He has a long history in the court," Lyon said.

Police said they believe Wendt waited in his car, then used a shotgun to kill his ex-wife, Vicki Sue Keller-Wendt, Brandie Keller and Douglas McCoy. It wasn't immediately clear how the victims were related.

The shooting occurred about 10:30 a.m. Police later surrounded the suspect's home in nearby Weidman, where authorities negotiated with him, said William Yeagley, public safety director of the Mount Pleasant police.

The man gave himself up shortly after 5 p.m. and was taken into custody. He was charged with one count of murder.

Mount Pleasant, population 26,000, is about 60 miles north of Lansing. It is the site of Central Michigan University and a casino that draws thousands of visitors a day.

"Crime happens in Mount Pleasant, but not shootings in broad daylight in front of the courthouse," said Denise Walton, owner of a small business.