A 19-year-old Grand Valley State University engineering student died after a 20-year-old partygoer intentionally fired multiple shots through an upstairs floor, striking him in the head at a Michigan house party.
At a Glance
- Connor Lotterman died in the hospital on May 10 after being shot at a house party in Tallmadge Township the night before
- The 20-year-old suspect fired multiple rounds from an upstairs bedroom through the floor, with one bullet striking Lotterman in the head
- Authorities ruled the shooting intentional but Lotterman’s death accidental, with alcohol believed to be a factor
- The suspect found the firearm in the house; charges are being considered but no arrest has been announced
Fatal Party Shooting Shocks Quiet Community
The deadly incident occurred just after 11 p.m. on May 9 near 2nd Avenue and Lake Michigan Drive NW in Tallmadge Township, Michigan. Connor Lotterman, who would have turned 20 shortly after the incident, was among 10 to 20 people at the gathering where all attendees reportedly knew each other. What began as a typical college party ended in tragedy when a 20-year-old attendee discovered a firearm in the house and made the fateful decision to discharge it multiple times through the floor from an upstairs bedroom.
Ottawa County Sheriff’s Office Captain Jake Sparks emphasized the deliberate nature of the gunfire. “The shooting was quite intentional. Multiple rounds were fired. It wasn’t like as if it were a one-shot accidental discharge. This was numerous rounds discharged. Although the result of the shooting led to an accidental death, this shooting was intentional,” Sparks stated. Law enforcement has not publicly identified the shooter while the investigation continues.
University Mourns Loss of Engineering Student
Lotterman, the youngest of five siblings, was rushed to a hospital but succumbed to his injuries the following day. The Grand Valley State University community expressed their grief over the sudden loss of a promising young student. The university has offered counseling and support services to students, faculty and staff affected by the tragedy as they process this shocking event that has impacted the campus community.
“The Grand Valley community is saddened by Connor’s tragic death,” GVSU Dean of Students Aaron Haight said in a statement. “On behalf of President Mantella, the Laker community extends our deepest sympathies to his family and friends. Students may utilize the Care referral process and the University Counseling Center for support and resources during this difficult time. Faculty and staff can access mental health services via the Employee Assistance Program.”
In the aftermath of the shooting, Lotterman’s sister, Marielle, posted a heartfelt tribute on social media: “Thank you for being the best little brother a girl could ask for. I am so thankful to God for the 20 amazing years you had on this earth. What a day that will be when we all unite in heaven.” The family is now facing the painful process of mourning a son and brother whose life was cut tragically short.
Investigation and Firearms Safety Concerns
The Ottawa County Sheriff’s Office continues to investigate the incident in cooperation with the County Prosecutor’s Office to determine appropriate charges. Although the death has been ruled accidental by the coroner, the intentional discharge of a firearm raises serious legal questions. Neighbors reported being shocked by the incident, describing the area as typically quiet and not known for such disturbances.
“Encourage people to be smart, firearms and alcohol don’t mix, that’s for sure. I think this situation could’ve been avoided without those things mixing,” said Captain Sparks.
Law enforcement officials have used this tragedy to highlight critical firearms safety practices. Captain Sparks emphasized proper storage measures: “If you have firearms that are out, lock them away, separate them from the ammunition. Gun safes, trigger guards, trigger locks, all those things can be important to make sure nothing tragic happens.” This preventable tragedy serves as a stark reminder of the potentially deadly consequences when firearms are improperly secured, especially in settings where alcohol is present.