A 19-year-old college student in Michigan died after being shot through the floor during a house party.
According to reports from local television stations WOOD and FOX 17, Grand Valley State University student Connor Lotterman was shot around 11 p.m. local time on Friday, May 9, during an incident at a home in Tallmadge Township, west of Grand Rapids.
According to Ottawa County Sheriff’s Office (OCSO) deputies, while the shooting is being treated as an accident, investigators believe that a suspect on the second floor of the home fired a gun through the floor multiple times, one of which struck Lotterman in the head.
According to reports, the house party had between 10 and 20 people in attendance, and deputies believe everyone knew each other.
“During that party, one of the subjects got a hold of a firearm and fired multiple rounds from an upstairs bedroom down through the floor and through the ceiling,” Jake Sparks, captain of the OCSO’s Detective Bureau, told FOX 17.
Sparks told WOOD that investigators believe alcohol was a factor in the shooting.
“The shooting was quite intentional,” Sparks explained. “Several rounds were fired. It wasn’t like it was a one-time accidental discharge. There were numerous rounds fired. Although the shooting resulted in an accidental death, it was intentional.
Lotterman was taken to a local hospital and passed away on Saturday, May 10, according to his obituary.
Sparks told the outlets that Ottawa County prosecutors are considering pursuing criminal charges against the shooter, who is 20 years old.
Grand Valley State University later released a statement regarding Lotterman’s death, saying, “The Grand Valley community is saddened by Connor’s tragic death.”
“On behalf of President Mantella, the Laker community sends its heartfelt condolences to his family and friends,” GVSU Dean of Students Aaron Haight said. “During this difficult time, students can seek support and resources through the Care referral process and the University Counseling Center. The Employee Assistance Program allows faculty and staff to access mental health services.
Sparks also told WOOD that the fatal incident should serve as a reminder for gun owners to properly store their weapons.
“If you have firearms that are out, lock them away, separate them from the ammunition,” he informed you. “Gun safes, trigger guards, trigger locks, all those things can be important to make sure nothing tragic happens.”
