In the early evening of June 2, 2025, Robert William Ritter Jr., a 72-year-old male, was tragically shot and killed at his home in Muskegon, Michigan. The incident occurred around 5:50 p.m. in the 1400 block of Jiroch Street. Ritter was inside his residence when he was struck by a bullet in the torso. Emergency services treated him at the scene before transporting him to Trinity Hospital, where he succumbed to his injuries. A neighbor later recounted sitting on her porch and witnessing a hand extend from the window of a passing car and fire a gun.
Robert, known to his friends and family as Bob, was a retired journeyman tool and die maker with over three decades of experience. He was an active member of the McLaughlin Neighborhood Association and was described by those who knew him as a welcoming and good-natured man who didn't bother anyone. He was married to his wife, Cheryl, for 45 years and enjoyed woodworking and spending time with his family and friends, particularly camping at Pioneer County Park.
In the wake of the shooting, the Muskegon Police Department began an active investigation. While the motive remains unclear, authorities have stated there is no evidence to suggest that Ritter was the intended target of the shooting. The investigation led to the arrest of 18-year-old Jamaul Hanson.
Jamaul Hanson has since been charged with open murder and a weapons offense in connection with Robert Ritter's death. During his arraignment, he was denied bond. In addition to the charges related to Ritter's death, Hanson is also facing an assault with intent to murder and a weapons charge in a separate case, for which his bond was set at $1 million. The legal proceedings against Hanson are ongoing.
