Full Notification

NEWS RELEASE

DATE OF RELEASE: OCTOBER 15, 2015
SUBJECT OF RELEASE: UPDATE ON SHOOTING OF DEPUTY
Releasing Authority: Sheriff William Barnwell

Just before midnight on Friday, October 9, 2015, a Deputy from the Montcalm County Sheriff’s Office, now officially identified as Michael Kotenko a 14 year veteran of the Sheriff’s Office, was shot with a crossbow bolt while assisting the Michigan State Police in serving a felony arrest warrant in Cato Township. Deputies and Michigan State Police Troopers tended to his medical needs until Montcalm County EMS arrived and transported him to the Lakeview Airport where he was then airlifted to Spectrum/Butterworth Hospital by Aeromed.

Deputy Kotenko subsequently underwent surgery and the bolt was successfully removed. He is currently listed in stable condition and is expected to make a full recovery. The family and the members of the Sheriff’s Office are grateful for the overwhelming support from the community and law enforcement during this most difficult time. However, the family has asked the Sheriff’s Office to request privacy from the Media as they concentrate their time on Mike’s recovery. Any questions regarding Deputy Kotenko’s condition should be directed to the Montcalm County Sheriff’s Office. Future updates will be provided on Deputy Kotenko’s condition as he continues to recover from his injuries.

Questions regarding the criminal investigation should be directed to the Michigan State Police Lakeview Post at 989-352-8444.