September 13, 2025

Homicides Decrease in Grand Rapids Amid Ongoing Gun Violence Concerns

News Summary

Grand Rapids has seen a slight decline in homicide cases in 2025, with nine reported by early September compared to ten in the same timeframe last year. Seven of the incidents were linked to gun violence, highlighting ongoing concerns within the community. Law enforcement has arrested suspects in six of the cases, allowing for more focused investigative efforts. As police emphasize the necessity of community cooperation in tackling gun violence, hopeful signs of a trend towards lower violent crime rates are visible.

Grand Rapids has reported a decrease in homicide cases in 2025, with nine incidents recorded by early September. This marks a slight reduction compared to ten homicides reported during the same period in 2024, as noted by the Grand Rapids Police Chief Eric Winstrom in a recent update.

Of the nine homicides this year, seven were linked to gun violence. The first firearm-related homicide occurred five months into 2025, when a man was shot outside of a bar, underscoring ongoing concerns about gun-related incidents within the community. Other notable homicide cases this year include a woman who was beaten to death by her boyfriend and a teenage girl who succumbed to injuries from a house fire allegedly set by her mother.

The age range of the victims this year varies significantly, from as young as 15 to as old as 61 years old. Law enforcement has reported making arrests in six of the nine cases, allowing detectives to dedicate more time and resources to adequately investigating each incident. This reduction in the number of cases is seen as an opportunity for focused investigative efforts.

2025 Homicide Incidents Overview

A chronological summary of the homicide cases in Grand Rapids for 2025 is as follows:

Jan. 25: Shamiya Stewart, 12, died from fire injuries in a house fire allegedly set by her mother. Roconda Singleton, 47, faces multiple charges including felony murder.
Feb. 12: Aleta Lung, 61, was found dead due to blunt force trauma. Randy Buckner, 48, has been arrested and awaits trial.
May 23: Montaness Lowe, 31, was fatally shot outside of Billy’s Lounge, with Keith Tett Jr., 26, charged with open murder.
June 7: Damarius Cochran, 26, was shot at the Pleasant Motel; Devon Hayle, 32, faces charges of open murder.
June 12: Myasia Johnson, 15, sustained gunshot wounds inside a home, with a 15-year-old boy facing charges as a juvenile.
June 13: Semaj James, 30, was shot in a residence, and Deshun Lewis, 31, has been charged.
Aug. 10: Randy Carl Campbell, 38, was shot fatally with ongoing investigations, but no arrests made.
Sept. 2: Marcus Jerome Jones, 41, was shot and killed; the case remains under investigation.
Sept. 6: DaShawn Guyton, 23, was shot and pronounced dead on the scene; an ongoing investigation is in place.

Community Involvement and Future Outlook

Police Chief Winstrom has emphasized that community engagement is crucial in addressing issues of gun violence and illegal firearm possession. The contribution of community members through tips, such as surveillance footage and cellphone videos, has significantly aided investigations.

At the same time, the police chief acknowledged the challenges faced, particularly with encouraging witnesses to come forward due to fears of retaliation. He remains hopeful that the city can move toward historic lows in violent crime and gun-related deaths, paving the way for a safer environment.

The current statistics indicate a positive trend in homicide cases, suggesting that ongoing efforts to curb violence and improve community cooperation may lead to further declines in such incidents in the coming months. With focused investigative resources and community collaboration, the Grand Rapids Police Department aims to create a safer community for its residents.

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

HERE Resources

Grand Rapids Faces Surge in Gun Violence Homicides
Grand Rapids Police Identify Victims in Recent Homicides
Suspect Arrested for Pointing Unregistered Firearm in Kentwood
Troy’s Diverse Economy and Recreational Offerings Shine
Tragic Hit-and-Run Claims Life in Grand Rapids
Teen to Stand Trial for Murder of 15-Year-Old in Grand Rapids
Teen Arrested After Armed Robbery at Dollar General
Michigan Proposes Controversial Abortion Legislation
Tragic Hostage Situation Ends in Saginaw Township
Two Men Ordered to Stand Trial for Murder in Grand Rapids

Additional Resources

Author: STAFF HERE GRANDRAPIDS WRITER

GRAND RAPIDS STAFF WRITER The GRAND RAPIDS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREGrandRapids.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Grand Rapids, Kent County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as ArtPrize, Festival of the Arts, and World of Winter. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Grand Rapids Chamber of Commerce and Grand Rapids Community Foundation, plus leading businesses in furniture, healthcare, and technology that power the local economy such as Steelcase, Spectrum Health, and Meijer. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREDetroitMI.com, HERENorthville.com, HERENovi.com, and HEREPlymouth.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Michigan's dynamic landscape.

ADD MORE INFORMATION OR CONTRIBUTE TO OUR ARTICLE CLICK HERE!

STAFF HERE GRANDRAPIDS WRITER

Stay Connected

More Updates

Community leaders discussing school aid budget issues in Grand Rapids

Would You Like To Add Your Business?

Submit