by GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (WOOD) — Police have identified the victim in Grand Rapids’ first deadly shooting of 2025 as 31-year-old Montaness Lowe. The shooting occurred early Friday morning, marking a tragic start to the summer season and raising fresh concerns about gun violence.
“Bottom line is we’re talking about a 31-year-old man whose life was cut short,” said Grand Rapids Police Chief Eric Winstrom. “It’s devastating.”
The incident unfolded around 1:30 a.m. outside Billy’s Lounge on Wealthy Street SE, near Giddings Avenue. According to police, several people were outside the bar when the shooting took place.
Chief Winstrom noted that Lowe had been inside the lounge earlier and that the altercation likely began indoors and moved outside, where the fatal shots were fired. Lowe was rushed to the hospital but died approximately an hour later. The Kent County Medical Examiner has ruled his death a homicide.
As of Tuesday, no arrests have been made, and police say the investigation is ongoing. Authorities are urging anyone with information to come forward.
The fact that this is the first fatal shooting of the year — five months into 2025 — is seen as a sign of progress. Still, Winstrom emphasized that there’s more work to be done.
“We were hoping to go the whole year without a single deadly shooting,” he said. “We’ve had a peaceful stretch, and this loss is a setback. But we remain committed to making Grand Rapids safer for everyone.”
He also warned that warmer weather — often linked to a rise in violence — calls for increased vigilance.
“As summer begins, we typically see a spike in violent incidents. It’s a reminder for us all to stay alert and proactive,” Winstrom said.
The tragedy has resonated far beyond Grand Rapids, with community members in states like Wyoming reflecting on similar challenges faced across the country regarding gun violence and public safety.
Winstrom emphasized that Lowe was not believed to be armed or involved in any criminal activity at the time of the shooting.
“Our hearts go out to his family,” he said. “This was an innocent man whose life was stolen, and we’re doing everything we can to get them answers — and justice.”
Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the Grand Rapids Police Department at 616-456-3380 or reach out to Silent Observer at 616-774-2345.
