Kalamazoo increases patrols at Kik Pool after shooting

KALAMAZOO, Mich. — The Kalamazoo Department of Public said patrols would be increased at Kik Pool after shots were fired there earlier this week.

On Friday everything was back to normal and people gathered for a swimming competition.

Heather Wheaton has two daughters who are competing in the swim meet at Kik Pool in Kalamazoo on Friday. She says while she is shocked by what happened here on Wednesday, she still feels comfortable taking her family to the pool.

“I think no matter what happens, you always have to exercise a certain level of caution no matter where you go these days,” Wheaton said. “Overall, I’m not too worried about it. Most of the events are during the day and it’s busy, so it’s not too big a deal.”

It all happened around 6:00 p.m. Wednesday night when KDPS was called about shots fired. According to police, the caller said there was more than one shooter. Investigators said they recovered two firearms and a juvenile was arrested.

Esther Brower took her grandson to the pool and says she is disappointed about what happened.

“It’s a shame because it’s such a great place for kids and people in the community. To turn it into something dangerous is just sad,” Brower said. “I’m not personally afraid, but I’m for stricter gun control. I’m definitely for our legislature being more proactive in whatever they can do.”

Anyone with information related to gun violence is asked to call KDPS at 269-337-8139 or submit tips through the Kalamazoo Silent Observer at 269-343-2100.