Grand Rapids Mayor George Heartwell says yesterday’s violent murders and hostage situation in his city has shaken the community to its roots.
But he says Grand Rapids is still a great community and a safe city.
"I don’t for a minute think that that defines Grand Rapids in any way or that it suggests that we are a city that is changed, or less safe today," said Heartwell.
Heartwell praised the city's police force, saying their actions saved lives.
34-year old Rodrick Danztler took his own life last night while negotiating a hostage release with the police.
Police say earlier in the day he shot and killed seven people, including an ex-girlfriend and his daughter, and a second ex-girlfriend and her daughter who was not his child.
