UPDATE: Suspect Arraigned in Alpine Township Shooting That Left One Dead, Two Injured
ALPINE TOWNSHIP, Mich: On 2/22/2025 at approximately 2:31 a.m., deputies responded to the 4500 block of Tabor Rd NW in Alpine Township after a neighbor reported hearing a loud, suspicious noise. A second call from an involved victim soon after stated a shooting had occurred in the home. Upon arrival, deputies located three victims with gunshot wounds:
- A 30-year-old female with serious injuries.
- A 36-year-old female with serious injuries.
- 56-year-old Norma Ramirez-Martinez who was deceased at the scene.
Both injured victims were treated at the scene and transported to a local hospital, where they are now in stable condition. An uninjured adult male and uninjured toddler were also in the home at the time of the incident.
Preliminary investigation indicates the shooting began as a domestic dispute and the suspect used a false name. The suspect fled in a vehicle immediately after the incident. KCSO deputies and detectives worked quickly and diligently to track him down, leading to his capture just hours later. The arrest occurred shortly after 7:00 a.m. in Berrien County, Michigan, following a coordinated effort by multiple law enforcement agencies.
Today, 2/24/2025, the suspect in this case, Gilberto Hernandez-Mendez age 42 of Alpine Township, was arraigned on 11 charges, including open murder, attempted homicide, and multiple weapons offenses.
The Kent County Sheriff’s Office extends its condolences to the family and friends of the victim. This is a tragic and traumatic incident for the family and community. KCSO will continue to work swiftly using all resources to bring justice for those affected by violent crime.
We want to thank the Coloma Township Police Department, Michigan State Police, and Watervliet City Police Department for their assistance in locating and arresting the suspect. Their collaboration was instrumental in bringing a quick resolution to this incident.
The suspect was found to have a prior deportation, and the immigration aspect of this case has been referred to Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations and Enforcement and Removal Operations offices.
Anyone with additional information regarding this incident is encouraged to contact the Kent County Sheriff’s Office at (616) 632-6100 or Silent Observer at (616) 774-2345 to remain anonymous.
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ALPINE TOWNSHIP, Mich: The suspect involved in this morning’s shooting in Alpine Township was taken into custody shortly after 7:00 a.m. There are no other suspects being sought at this time.
The two victims who sustained serious injuries are now in stable condition. The scene remains active as investigators continue processing evidence.
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ALPINE TOWNSHIP, Mich: The Kent County Sheriff’s Office is investigating a shooting that occurred in the 4500 block of Tabor Rd NW in Alpine Township. At approximately 2:31 a.m., deputies responded to a report from a neighbor who heard a loud, suspicious noise and requested a welfare check on a nearby residence. A second call was then received from an involved victim confirming that a shooting had occurred. Kent County Sheriff's Office and additional assisting agencies responded to the scene.
Deputies located three victims:
- A 30-year-old female with serious injuries.
- A 36-year-old female with serious injuries.
- A female between the ages of 50-60 who was deceased at the scene.
Both injured victims were treated on scene and immediately transported to a local hospital for treatment. Preliminary investigation indicates the incident began as a domestic dispute. The suspect fled in a vehicle and remains at large. Law enforcement is actively searching for the suspect, and the public should avoid attempting contact with the suspect.
Investigators are seeking a Hispanic male in his 40’s driving a dark green Dodge Ram pickup with dark rims, aftermarket fender flares, a chrome rear bumper, and bearing a green Michigan license plate 89AFJ8. The suspect is considered armed and dangerous and should not be approached. If anyone sees this vehicle or suspect, call 911 immediately.
The Kent County Sheriff’s Office is committed to ensuring the safety of the community and thorough investigation. Anyone with information related to this incident is asked to contact 911, the Kent County Sheriff’s Office at (616) 632-6100 or Silent Observer at (616) 774-2345 to remain anonymous.
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