Security officer killed in Grand Valley State hit-and-run

A security officer was killed in a hit-and-run at Grand Valley State University, and a student was taken into custody.

University officials said the crash happened early Friday, Oct. 16, at the Valley Campus in Allendale. The officer worked for a third-party contractor.

“Our thoughts and prayers go out to the family and friends of the victim, who was working on our campus to help keep our community safe,” university President Philomena Mantella said in a statement.

The university had recently tightened overnight campus access following vehicle break-ins, a fight involving weapons and a reported threat in a residence hall.

The crash remains under investigation. Anyone with information is asked to contact the Grand Valley Police Department at 616-331-3255.

Benefits and claims after a worker is killed by a driver

When a covered employee dies from a work-related injury, qualifying dependents may receive weekly workers' compensation payments under MCL 418.321. These benefits help replace the financial support the worker provided.

Under MCL 418.827, receiving workers' compensation doesn't prevent a separate claim against an outside driver whose negligence caused the death, provided the driver is neither the employer nor a coemployee. Part of a third-party recovery may have to repay workers' compensation benefits.

Michigan Legal Center's explanation of Michigan wrongful death deadlines describes how the underlying claim and estate appointment affect filing.

Get help from Michigan Legal Center

Michigan Legal Center: the Law Offices of Christopher J. Trainor & Associates handles motor vehicle crash and wrongful death claims.

If your loved one died in a Michigan traffic crash while working, contact Michigan Legal Center to discuss possible claims and how they may interact with workers' compensation.

There is no attorney fee unless money is recovered for you. Case costs and fee terms are governed by the written fee agreement.