Police Spent Five Hours at Scene But Suspect Was Not Inside House

GRAND RAPIDS, MI — The Grand Rapids Police Department is investigating a strangulation incident that left a woman injured Sunday morning, but authorities made no arrest after the suspect was not found inside the home where he was believed to have barricaded himself.

Around 9:30 a.m. Sunday, the Grand Rapids Police Department was called to Darwin Avenue near Quigley Boulevard, north of Burton Street, for a report of strangulation. Police say the suspect barricaded himself inside the house and remained there for several hours.

The woman who was strangled reported neck pain and a raspy voice, according to police. The Grand Rapids Fire Department also responded to the scene. Neighbors say they were ordered not to leave their homes during the incident.

Police were out at the scene for five hours, but no one was arrested because the suspect was ultimately not inside the house, GRPD told News 8.

Anyone with information about the incident is asked to contact the Grand Rapids Police Department at 616.456.3380 or the Silent Observer line at 616.774.2345.

Community Impact

The incident has raised questions in the Darwin Avenue neighborhood about safety and police response. Residents described being held in their homes for an extended period while police conducted their investigation.

The suspect is still at large and remains a person of interest in the case. Police continue to review evidence and interview witnesses to determine if additional investigation is warranted.

Ongoing Investigation

The Grand Rapids Police Department has been reviewing the incident internally. Chief Eric Winstrom has previously stated that the department prioritizes FOIA compliance and will review body camera footage and interview complaint filers.

Anyone with information is encouraged to come forward with details about what occurred during the incident.