FRUITPORT, Michigan — A Fruitport Middle School student was fatally shot Saturday night, leaving the community reeling and prompting an outpouring of grief, according to school officials.
Community Mourns Eighth-Grader Lost to Gun Violence
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The Fruitport Township community is grappling with the tragic loss of a 14-year-old student, identified as Rylen Yager, who was killed in a shooting Saturday evening.
- Rylen Yager, 14, was an eighth-grade student at Fruitport Middle School.
- The shooting occurred around 7:20 p.m. Saturday in the 2900 block of Romedius Street.
- The Michigan State Police are handling the investigation due to a family affiliation.
- The school district is providing emotional support for students and staff.
Superintendent Jason Kennedy identified the victim as Rylen Yager in a letter posted on Facebook. What impact does a sudden loss like this have on a school community? It leaves a lasting impression, according to Kennedy, who described Yager as a bright light to those who knew him.
A Student Remembered for Kindness and Joy
“Rylen’s presence brought light and joy to many,” Kennedy wrote. “Known for a huge smile and a wonderful sense of humor, Rylen had a way of making others feel welcome and valued. With many friends and a heart of gold, Rylen was kind, compassionate, and always willing to connect with those around him.”
Yager was described as both artistic and athletic, possessing a “genuine love for life.” Kennedy emphasized the profound impact Yager had on the school community, stating he would be “remembered fondly and missed dearly.”
Details of the Shooting and Investigation
The shooting took place around 7:20 p.m. on Saturday in the 2900 block of Romedius Street. Fruitport Township Police responding to the scene found Yager deceased. Authorities have not released information regarding the circumstances leading up to the shooting.
Due to a connection between Yager’s family and the Fruitport Township Police Department, the investigation has been turned over to the Michigan State Police.
Support for Students and Staff
The Fruitport Community Schools district’s Emotional Support Team met Sunday evening to prepare for students’ return to school on Monday. Fruitport Middle School staff will receive a briefing on Yager’s passing before classes begin.
Counselors and social workers will be available to support students and staff struggling with the loss. The district has also collaborated with the MAISD to secure additional resources from the Critical Incident Stress Management team.
“On behalf of Fruitport Community Schools, I extend my condolences to Rylen’s friends, staff who cared deeply for him, his family, and his loved ones,” Kennedy said. “Additionally, please continue to pray for the first responders who support our community. We are blessed to have such outstanding caring people supporting us. Hug your loved ones tonight and keep the family in your thoughts and prayers.”
Officials have stated that no further details will be released at this time, respecting the family’s request for privacy and the ongoing nature of the investigation.
