Authorities in Ottawa County have identified the victim of a fatal shooting that occurred inside a Georgetown Township apartment on Thursday morning. The Ottawa County Sheriff’s Office confirmed that 52-year-old Elieser Lores Montano, of Georgetown Township, died following the incident at the Brookmeadow Apartments, located near 44th Street.
Deputies were dispatched to the complex just after 9 a.m. on September 25 after receiving reports of a domestic disturbance that had escalated into violence. When officers arrived at approximately 9:12 a.m., they found Montano suffering from a gunshot wound. Despite emergency efforts, he was pronounced dead at the scene.
Investigators quickly determined that the shooting was the result of a domestic dispute inside the apartment. By Thursday afternoon, Montano’s 49-year-old wife was taken into custody in connection with the case. Officials said she remains in jail as prosecutors review the evidence and prepare formal charges. Her name has not been released pending her initial court arraignment.
On Friday, the Ottawa County Medical Examiner’s Office confirmed Montano’s death was a homicide caused by a gunshot wound, reinforcing detectives’ early findings that the shooting was intentional and not accidental. Authorities continue to investigate what led to the altercation and whether a weapon was recovered at the scene. Detectives are interviewing neighbors and witnesses who may have information about the events leading up to the tragedy.
The case has drawn renewed attention to the dangers of domestic violence, a problem that law enforcement officials say remains a serious concern in communities across Michigan. The sheriff’s office is urging residents to seek help if they or someone they know may be at risk. Confidential resources, support groups, and law enforcement intervention remain available to those facing domestic conflicts that could escalate into violence.
As prosecutors prepare charges, the investigation remains active. Authorities are asking anyone with information to contact the Ottawa County Sheriff’s Office at (616) 738-4000, or to leave an anonymous tip through Silent Observer at 1-877-88-SILENT (745368). The shooting has left neighbors and the wider community shocked, with many residents describing the Brookmeadow Apartments as normally quiet and peaceful. For now, Montano’s family and community are left mourning the sudden loss as they await the next steps in the legal process.