DETROIT (FOX 2) – Three people are dead after a violent shooting on Detroit’s west side early Tuesday.

Among those killed was Thomas Stephenson Mills III, whom the family described as a loving husband, father and successful studio producer. The 45-year-old has racked up awards while composing music for dozens of films.

A sign of how he lived his life is revealed in his favorite motto: “I have to make sure everyone is taken care of.”

Speaking Tuesday night at McNichols near Greenfield, Detroit Deputy Police Chief Jacqueline Pritchett didn’t shy away from the scene and the danger gun violence brings to a community.

“It should be scary for everybody. Nobody wants to be in a neighborhood where people are getting shot,” she said.

Police first responded around 7 p.m. when they were called by two men who said someone had been shot.

Inside a building, they found a man and a woman dead. A third victim later died in hospital.

Thomas Stephenson Mills III, 45

Police believe the shooting was targeted and say there is no danger to the community.

“I just want people to know that the Detroit Police Department is very capable, we’re here, we’re heroes, and I’m confident that this crime will be solved as well,” Pritchett said.

Police are still investigating all angles of the shooting. Anyone with information is asked to call 1-800 SPEAK UP.