DETROIT (WXYZ) — Detroit police believe they have recovered the gun used to kill an Oakland County Sheriff’s Office detective. This revelation comes from a source close to the case.

Detective Brad Reckling was tragically shot and killed on Saturday while searching for a stolen car. He was undercover near Park Grove and Schoenherr on Detroit’s east side.

That night, Detroit police quickly set up a perimeter and apprehended three suspects.

In an unexpected twist, these three suspects might soon be released. The legal clock is running out on holding them without charges.

Do they have enough to hold them?

Edward, a local resident, recounted his experience. “I heard the shots right outside my window. I was hoping they wouldn’t shoot through the window,” he said. “I thought it was young drug dealers shooting at each other.”

Unfortunately, the gunshots Edward heard were aimed at Reckling, who was tracking the stolen vehicle from Madison Heights.

Sources informed 7 News Detroit that the three detained men, suspected in Reckling’s murder, have each acquired legal representation. If they aren’t arraigned within 72 hours of their arrest, police must release them.

“It sickens me. I understand that criminals have rights, but so do victims,” said Steve Dolunt, a retired Detroit assistant police chief. “And we’ve got a pregnant widow with three children.”

According to the source, a Wayne County Prosecutor’s Office spokesperson stated that they have not yet received a warrant request.

A potential sign of difficulty in gathering enough evidence for a warrant appeared Monday afternoon. Detroit police issued a press release seeking public assistance.

“There must be some loose ends there,” Dolunt remarked. “And now there’s a $5,000 reward out for more information.

While they think these are the prime suspects, they need more to proceed to an arraignment and a preliminary examination, so I’m concerned.”

If the 72-hour period expires tonight, the three suspects will have to be released unless investigators can hold them on unrelated charges.

“Just pray for the family because if these guys get out, the chances are if they had stolen guns and a stolen car… they’re going to commit another crime,” Dolunt warned.

Anyone with information is urged to contact the Detroit Homicide Task Force at 313-596-2260 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-SPEAK-UP, where anonymity is guaranteed.

Tips can also be submitted at DetroitRewards.tv, and if your tip advances the case, you will receive a $5,000 reward. Include case number 2406220359.

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