Community members gather in remembrance of the GVSU student who tragically lost his life.
A Grand Valley State University student, Connor Lotterman, was fatally shot at a house party in Tallmadge Township. The incident occurred when a 20-year-old man fired a gun from an upstairs bedroom, resulting in Lotterman’s injury. Despite immediate medical attention, he died the following day. The shooter is in custody as investigations continue, while the university community mourns the loss of a promising young student.
Tallmadge Township – A 19-year-old Grand Valley State University student, Connor Lotterman, tragically lost his life following a shooting incident at a house party. The shooting occurred on May 9, after 11 p.m., at a residence near 2nd Avenue and Lake Michigan Drive NW.
Lotterman, who was studying engineering at the university, was shot in the head when a 20-year-old man from Jenison fired multiple rounds from a loaded gun through the floor of an upstairs bedroom. He was quickly transported to the hospital but succumbed to his injuries the next day, on May 10. The Ottawa County medical examiner has ruled his death as accidental, despite Captain Jake Sparks from the Ottawa County Sheriff’s Department characterizing the shooting as intentional.
The authorities have not released the identity of the shooter, who is currently in police custody and cooperating with the ongoing investigation. Prosecutors are currently reviewing potential criminal charges against him. Approximately 10 to 20 people were present at the party during the incident, and alcohol is suspected to have played a role in the events that unfolded.
The Ottawa County Sheriff’s Office has confirmed that all attendees of the residence were acquaintances of Lotterman and that there is no ongoing threat to the public. The investigation is still in its early stages, with inquiries being made into the motive behind the shooting. Authorities responded to reports of gunshots and an injured person in the 10700 block of 2nd Avenue shortly after the incident was reported.
The death of Connor Lotterman has deeply affected the Grand Valley State University community. The Dean of Students at the university extended condolences, emphasizing the sadness felt across the campus and offering support resources for students and staff who may be struggling with this tragedy.
Memorial services for Lotterman were held on the Thursday and Friday following his death, with a funeral taking place that Saturday at Grace Protestant Reformed Church in Grand Rapids. Lotterman was a resident of Grand Rapids and the youngest of five children, having graduated from Covenant Christian High School in 2023.
Investigators are keen to gather more insight into the circumstances surrounding the incident. Anyone with additional information about the shooting is encouraged to contact the Ottawa County Sheriff’s Office or Silent Observer.
This incident serves as a tragic reminder of the importance of safety and responsibility, especially in social settings where alcohol may be involved. The community is left mourning the loss of a young life with potential and a promising future ahead.
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