A car meetup in Grand Rapids turned deadly in the early hours of Sunday, September 3, 2023. Nineteen-year-old Alana Vasquez was at a gathering near Freeman Avenue SW and Hall Street SW when gunfire broke out around 1:15 a.m. She was struck, taken to a local hospital with critical injuries, and died shortly after arrival. The Kent County Medical Examiner’s Office ruled her death a homicide.

Alana had recently graduated high school and was described by family as funny, goofy, and kind. She had just bought a new car and was beginning adult life when it was cut short. The Grand Rapids Police Department opened an investigation and asked attendees to provide any information, photos, or videos that could identify whoever fired the shots. Investigators said their priority was solving the murder rather than pursuing minor offenses from the gathering.

Despite a large crowd being present, cooperation from witnesses has been limited. If anyone attended that meetup or has footage or tips, please come forward.