Michigan family of eight killed in murder-suicide fire

A Michigan man shot and killed his wife and their six children before setting multiple fires inside their home and taking his own life, authorities announced Monday, July 27, 2026. The deaths of the family of eight in Grand Haven Township have been officially ruled a murder-suicide.

The Ottawa County Sheriff’s Office said autopsies determined all eight died from gunshot wounds. The deaths of Amanda "Mandy" Karolkiewicz, 39, and the six children were ruled homicides. The death of Kristopher Karolkiewicz, 47, was ruled a suicide, with investigators identifying him as the perpetrator.

The tragedy unfolded on Friday, July 24. Authorities first responded to the 14900 block of Riverside Trail shortly before 9 a.m. after reports of a smoke smell, but crews did not locate an active fire at that time. At approximately 11:42 a.m., more calls reported visible smoke from the Karolkiewicz residence. Firefighters entered the burning home and discovered the bodies.

Investigators said preliminary evidence shows the fires were intentionally set in numerous locations on the first floor and in the basement, and that they were ignited only after the seven victims had been killed. The basement...