Ottawa County man kills wife and six children before taking his own life
Police say 47-year-old Kristopher Karolkiewicz shot his wife and six children in Grand Haven Township, set the house on fire and then died by suicide.
Ottawa County officials reported that Kristopher Karolkiewicz, 47, shot his wife, Amanda Karolkiewicz, 39, and their six children before setting their Grand Haven Township home ablaze and then taking his own life on Friday. All eight victims died from gunshot wounds, according to a statement from the county sheriff’s office, which classified the incident as a murder-suicide.
First responders entered the smoke-filled residence on Riverside Trail early Friday and found the family deceased. Autopsies were performed at Corewell Health-Blodgett Hospital, and medical examiners ruled Karolkiewicz’s death a suicide while the others were homicides. The children, aged five to 15, have been identified by relatives as Keegan, Bennett, Caroline, Ella, Smith and Teddy.
Investigators are still determining the fire’s origin but believe it was arson. No additional suspects are being sought. A press conference is scheduled for 2 p.m. at the Fillmore Complex in West Olive.
The family’s sister, Molly Cessna, urged the public not to spread speculation, asking that “theories” be avoided until the investigation is complete. She also thanked the community for its support.
Amanda Karolkiewicz worked as a substitute teacher for Grand Haven Area Public Schools and had recently returned from a trip to China with two of her daughters. The school district expressed condolences, describing the loss as “devastating” for the community.
Local St. Patrick’s Parish announced a Rosary prayer at 5:30 p.m. Monday to honor the victims and support grieving residents.