A Michigan college student was killed in a “intentional” shooting when multiple gunshots were fired across the floor during a house party, according to police.
Connor Lotterman, 19, was struck in the head by a bullet fired recklessly by an unidentified 20-year-old suspect on May 9 at 11:11 p.m., the Ottowa County Sheriff’s Office told Fox News Digital.
“The shooting was quite intentional,” Ottowa County Sheriff’s Office Capt. Jake Sparks told WOOD-TV. “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.
The Ottawa County Sheriff’s Department revealed that the 20-year-old male suspect obtained a firearm found in the home. According to police, the male suspect fired multiple rounds through the floor of an upstairs bedroom. The bullets penetrated the floor, with one striking Lotterman in the head.
Lotterman, an engineering student at Grand Valley State University (GVSU), was taken to a local hospital in critical condition.
The Kent County medical examiner, Dr. Stephen Cohle, confirmed to Fox News Digital that the cause of death was an accidental gunshot wound to the head.
Police suspect that alcohol played a role in the incident.
According to police, all of the individuals involved in the incident knew each other.
Investigators are working with the Ottawa County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office to review any potential criminal charges against the 20-year-old man. Police stated that his name would not be released at this time.
Sheriff’s detectives are continuing their investigation, and anyone with information should contact the Ottawa County Sheriff’s Office or Silent Observer at 1-877-88-SILENT (745368) or mosotips.com.
According to an online obituary, Lotterman was the youngest of five. In an Instagram birthday message, his older sister expressed her grief.
“Thank you for being the best little brother a girl could ask for,” Marielle Lotterman wrote. “I am grateful to God for the 20 amazing years you spent on this earth. What a day it will be when we are all together in heaven.”
GVSU’s dean of students, Aaron Haight, told Fox News Digital that the college community is “saddened by Connor’s tragic death.”
“On behalf of President Mantella, the Laker community extends our deepest sympathies to his family and friends,” he told reporters. “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.