GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (WOOD) — Four people were injured when multiple shots were fired outside a bar in Grand Rapids’ Heartside area early Sunday, police say.

The Grand Rapids Police Department said three of the victims were men and one was a woman. One of the three men is said to be in serious condition. The three others who are hurt are considered to not have life-threatening injuries.

The shooting happened shortly after 1:30 a.m. near the intersection of Oakes Street SW and Cesar E. Chavez Avenue, near Grand Woods Lounge.

Uber driver Jerry Bessey told News 8 that his car was caught in the crossfire.

“I think I was in a state of shock at first, and then all of a sudden I started hearing bullets flying and I was like, ‘I’ve got to get out of here,'” Bessey said.

He was not hurt, but his car was slightly damaged by a bullet.

Bessey said he was waiting for his passenger when he noticed two men fighting on the ground. He said a third man walked up with a gun and began shooting, causing a panic.

“There was probably over 100 people there outside, so only four of them got hit, that’s doing pretty good with all those bullets flying,” Bessey said.

A News 8 crew at the scene saw a Jeep being loaded on to a tow truck around 2:15 a.m. It was unclear whether or how it may have been involved in the shooting. A forensics team arrived shortly before 3 a.m.

GRPD has not released any information about suspects.

  • Police respond to a shooting in Grand Rapids' Heartside area on July 17, 2022.
  • Police respond to a shooting in Grand Rapids' Heartside area on July 17, 2022.
  • Police respond to a shooting in Grand Rapids' Heartside area on July 17, 2022.

On Sunday afternoon, the Grand Woods Lounge issued the following statement:

“Our hearts go out to the victims of the shooting that took place last night at the intersection of Oakes Street and Cesar Chavez Ave. We want to correct some misreporting and confirm that this tragic incident was not connected to The Woods or its patrons. The Woods has always been, and continues to be, a safe venue for all. 

“This tragedy brings to light our deep concern for the increase in violence in the surrounding area and the decrease of police presence, which we have consistently reported to city officials and the Grand Rapids Police Department over the past three years. At The Woods, our top priority is the safety and wellbeing of our employees and patrons. It is time local leadership prioritizes the security of our downtown streets so Grand Rapids can be a safe, fun destination for all.”

The Woods management said in a statement