GRAND RAPIDS -- A horrifying day in Grand Rapids came to a violent end Thursday night when a suspected gunman took his own life.

Police say 34-year-old Rodrick Dantzler shot and killed seven people, including two children.

Dantzler then led police on a chase through Grand Rapids before taking three people hostage inside an apartment.

Police Chief Kevin Belk says the ex-convict eventually killed himself with a single shot, ending the standoff. His hostages were unharmed.

Belk also said, it makes no sense and its extremely difficult.

Authorities say Dantzler left behind a pair of bloody crime scenes. The unexplained rampage in two Grand Rapids homes left his 12-year-old daughter, his daughter's mother, an ex-girlfriend, a 10-year-old niece, and three others dead.

Michigan Gov. Rick Snyder has expressed "condolences and deepest sympathies" to the families of the people killed in a shooting spree in Grand Rapids.

Snyder issued a statement early Friday calling the shooting spree "a senseless, tragic wave of violence." The governor says he also commends the "brave men and women" of the police and other emergency agencies who worked to save lives in an effort to "protect citizens and bring an end to this tragedy."

Attorney General Bill Schuette had a similar response Friday. He states, "The City of Grand Rapids has suffered an unspeakable tragedy.  The thoughts and prayers of the entire State of Michigan are with the families and friends of the victims of these crimes.  The officers and members of the law enforcement community demonstrated incredible heroism throughout the ordeal.  Their bravery will not be forgotten."