Connor Lotterman Obituary, Death: Deputies, GVSU Student Fatally Shot Through Floor at House Party

Connor Lotterman Obituary, Death – A tragic accident at a party in Tallmadge Township has claimed the life of a 19-year-old college student. Authorities from the Ottawa County Sheriff’s Office have identified the victim as Connor Lotterman, a resident of Tallmadge Township and a student at Grand Valley State University (GVSU). The incident occurred late on the night of Friday, May 9, when Lotterman was shot in the head during a house gathering.

According to investigators, the incident took place just after 11 p.m. at a residence located on 2nd Avenue near Lake Michigan Drive. Deputies reported that a 20-year-old man attending the same party was upstairs in a bedroom when he discovered a firearm somewhere inside the house. The man, whose name has not been disclosed, discharged the weapon multiple times through the floor of the room he was in.

At the time of the gunfire, Lotterman was downstairs with other attendees. One of the bullets fired from above penetrated the floor and struck Lotterman in the head. Emergency responders arrived and transported him to the hospital, but unfortunately, he later succumbed to his injuries.

The Ottawa County Sheriff’s Office has since confirmed that an autopsy was performed on May 14, with the medical examiner ruling Lotterman’s death as accidental. Investigators also noted that alcohol was believed to have played a role in the incident. All individuals present at the residence were known to each other, suggesting a social gathering rather than a public or unregulated party.

While the authorities continue to gather evidence and review the case, they are collaborating with the Ottawa County Prosecutor’s Office to determine whether criminal charges may be appropriate. The 20-year-old shooter has not been publicly identified, and no charges have been filed as of yet. Investigators are still examining the details surrounding how the firearm was obtained, why it was discharged, and the sequence of events that led to the fatal injury.

The Ottawa County Sheriff’s Office is urging anyone with further information to come forward. Tips can be submitted directly to the sheriff’s department or through the Silent Observer hotline at 1-877-88-SILENT (745368), which allows for anonymous reporting.

In the wake of the tragedy, Grand Valley State University has expressed its deep sorrow. GVSU’s Dean of Students, Aaron Haight, issued a statement on behalf of the university community and President Mantella. “The Grand Valley community is saddened by Connor’s tragic death,” the statement read. “On behalf of President Mantella, the Laker community extends our deepest sympathies to his family and friends.”

Haight encouraged students affected by the incident to seek support through the university’s Care referral process and Counseling Center. Faculty and staff members were also reminded that they could access mental health services through the university’s Employee Assistance Program.

Lotterman’s death has sent shockwaves through the GVSU campus and the broader Tallmadge community. As news of the shooting spread, many students and local residents expressed their grief and disbelief, noting the senseless nature of the incident. Lotterman was remembered by peers as a bright, friendly, and engaged student with a promising future.

The case has also raised concerns about the presence of firearms at social gatherings and the role alcohol may play in clouding judgment and leading to preventable tragedies. Though investigators have ruled the shooting accidental, the situation has sparked discussions about gun safety, responsibility, and legal consequences.

This incident is the latest in a series of accidental shootings across the country that have resulted in fatalities or severe injuries. Advocacy groups continue to push for safer gun storage practices and better education around firearms, particularly in environments where young adults and alcohol are involved.

Meanwhile, the focus remains on supporting those grieving Lotterman’s loss. GVSU has committed to providing mental health services for students, faculty, and staff impacted by the tragedy. Memorial efforts are also expected to be announced in the coming days as friends, classmates, and professors honor Lotterman’s memory.

The investigation remains ongoing, and authorities will provide updates as more information becomes available. For now, a community mourns a young life lost too soon due to a heartbreaking and preventable accident.