GEORGETOWN TOWNSHIP — Deputies say they are searching for an armed man accused of forcing his way into the Georgetown Township apartment of a former partner and attacking her while children were present, according to the Ottawa County Sheriff’s Office.
A child’s 911 call around 5:30 a.m. Thursday led deputies to an apartment on Baldwin Street near Main Street. When officers arrived, they learned that a 32-year-old man from Grand Rapids had allegedly broken into the apartment while armed with a handgun.
Deputies said the suspect assaulted a 32-year-old woman with whom he had previously been in a relationship. At the time of the incident, three children—ranging in age from 7 months to 14 years old—were also inside the apartment. Authorities said the woman suffered minor injuries, while the children were not hurt.
As deputies arrived on scene, the suspect fled into a nearby wooded area, officials said. A search effort was launched that included the use of drones, police K-9 units, and crisis negotiators. The Michigan State Police and the Holland Police Department also assisted in the response.
After searching the area, investigators determined that the man had “evaded capture.” While the search remains ongoing, law enforcement officials said they no longer believe the suspect is in the immediate area.
“There is no danger to the community,” the sheriff’s office said in a release.
Authorities have not released the suspect’s name or photograph. Anyone with information is asked to contact the Ottawa County Sheriff’s Office at 616-738-4000 or Silent Observer at 877-887-4536.
Jenison Public Schools sent a message to families Thursday morning stating the district was aware of the situation and that there was no threat to any schools. School officials said they would continue to work closely with law enforcement and remain prepared to respond if circumstances change.
Advocates note that even when physical injuries are not severe, domestic violence incidents can have lasting emotional effects on families. Suzanne Katerberg, crisis and supportive services coordinator for Holland-based Resilience, said children are often deeply affected by witnessing violence in the home.
She explained that children may feel responsible for what happened, worry about keeping a parent safe, or experience ongoing fear and anxiety. Some children may also show signs of trauma through heightened vigilance or changes in behavior. Katerberg said open conversations about emotions and realities surrounding such situations can help reduce long-term harm.
She added that when the parent or guardian directly affected by the violence seeks support, it can help children understand that it is acceptable to express emotions and ask for help. Resilience and similar organizations offer resources to support families navigating the aftermath of domestic violence.
