Tag Archives: Wyoming Public Safety

Wyoming Public Safety Chief Kimberly Koster announces retirement

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Following a distinguished career with the City of Wyoming spanning three decades, Wyoming Public Safety Chief Kimberly Koster has announced her retirement (Courtesy, City of Wyoming)


By WKTV Staff

deborah@wktv.org


Following a distinguished career with the City of Wyoming spanning three decades, Wyoming Public Safety Chief Kimberly Koster has announced her retirement, effective Jan. 2, 2026.

Chief Koster has served in her role since April 25, 2018, leading a team of nearly 167 full-time sworn and civilian personnel from both the police and fire department. During her tenure with the department, she built a strong foundation of community trust and led her team to serve and protect through violent crime incidents, medical emergencies, severe weather, two public safety ballot proposals, an unprecedented global pandemic, among others.

Under her leadership, Chief Koster:

  • Played an integral role in passing a public safety millage proposal – supporting the
    addition of 14 new police officers and 13 new firefighters, opened and renovated all
    four fire stations to provide quick and professional service to all districts in Wyoming,
    purchased a new platform fire truck to respond to multistory building fires and combat
    violent crime with proactive policing.
  • Worked to maintain and secure accreditation for the Department from the Commission
    on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies and was appointed to serve as a
    commissioner with CALEA.
  • Was appointed by Governor Gretchen Whitmer to the Michigan Commission on Law
    Enforcement Standards to represent the Michigan Association of Chiefs of Police.
  • Developed strong relationships with the business community in Wyoming by
    implementing a second shift community services unit that provides proactive and
    overnight policing in the City’s business districts.
(Courtesy, Wyoming Police Department)

“Chief Koster has been a significant asset and leader not only within our City offices, but especially for our residents, whom she has built countless positive relationships with,” said Wyoming City Manager John Shay. “I’m deeply honored to have served with her and am incredibly proud of her accomplishments and contributions to improve Wyoming.

“I know that I speak for all of us at City Hall and the Department of Public Safety in wishing her
and her family the best as she begins this next chapter.”

Exceptional professionalism and leadership

With three decades of law enforcement experience, Koster began her career with Wyoming as a school resource and community policing officer. In this position, she worked with neighborhood groups and organized community events to bridge gaps and build solidarity among neighbors.

Koster worked her way up through the ranks to detective, sergeant, lieutenant and captain, a position she had held since 2010. In this role, she assisted with the formation of the Public Safety Department through the administrative consolidation of police and fire services, created a new staffing model, facilitated dispatch operation transitions and led a collaborative effort in the development of the department’s five-year strategic plan.

Wyoming Police Chief Kim Koster reads “Valenstiens” by Ethan Long on-camera at WKTV (WKTV, 2021)

Throughout her career, Koster has been recognized with several commendations, including the Life Saving Award, Chief’s Award of Excellence, Outstanding Young Public Safety Officer and Safe Driving Award.

She served as a 911 communications supervisor, during which time she led the consolidation of police and fire operations in multiple communities, including Wyoming’s move to Kent County.

She has also served as lead detective in homicide investigations and as a crisis negotiator, among other critical roles throughout her career.

“The departure of Chief Koster is tremendously bittersweet,” said Wyoming Mayor Kent Vanderwood. “During her tenure, she has consistently demonstrated exceptional professionalism and leadership, along with remarkable energy, passion, and commitment to her profession, her city and her department.

“Wyoming City Council wishes her well as she transitions into retirement, and we thank her for her incredible service throughout the years.”

What the future holds

City Manager John Shay has appointed Deputy Director Kip Snyder to the Director role. Snyder has served with the Wyoming Police Department for 33 years as an officer, K9 handler, vice detective, sergeant, lieutenant, captain and most recently as Chief Koster’s Deputy Director. He will remain in this role until his retirement.

Chief Koster and her wife, Marie, will continue to make their home in Grand Rapids with their family.

In her letter to City Manager John Shay, Koster wrote: “The City of Wyoming is extremely fortunate to have police officers, firefighters, and professional staff who are filled with compassion, capable of heroic action, dedicated to justice and hard work, fair to everyone, and professional beyond measure.

“Being their Chief was one of the greatest gifts I was ever given…”

Two people injured, building sustains damage after Wyoming collision

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Wyoming Police continue investigation into a vehicle collision involving an apartment complex on 30th Street SW (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)


By WKTV Staff

deborah@wktv.org


Two people were injured and an apartment building sustained significant damage after a vehicle crashed into a residential complex in the 2300 block of 30th Street SW.

At approximately 1:35 a.m., Wyoming Department of Public Safety police and fire personnel responded to reports of a vehicle collision involving an apartment building at 2323 30th Street SW. Upon arrival, first responders found a vehicle that had struck the building. The female driver sustained serious but non-life-threatening injuries, while an occupant of the apartment unit was transported to a local hospital with minor injuries.

Due to the significant structural damage, several units in the building have been deemed unsafe. Residents displaced by the crash have been connected with the Red Cross for temporary housing assistance until the building is deemed safe for occupancy.

Preliminary investigation indicates alcohol was likely a factor in the crash.

The vehicle remains at the scene to help stabilize the structure until additional support can be brought in.

Anyone with information regarding this incident is asked to contact Wyoming Police at 616-530-7300 or Silent Observer at 616-774-2345; 1-866-774-2345; or https://www.silentobserver.org.

Missing Person UPDATE: Wyoming PD locates 24-year-old Madeline McDonald

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Madeline McDonald (Courtesy, Wyoming PD)


By WKTV Staff

deborah@wktv.org


UPDATE

Madeline has been located and is safe.

Wyoming Police thank the public for their willingness to assist with cases of missing persons.

Original WPD Announcement

The Wyoming Police Department is asking for assistance locating 24-year-old Madeline McDonald.

Madeline has been missing since Jan. 27, 2025. Madeline is considered at risk due to concerns for her well-being. While no foul play is suspected, authorities and family members are concerned for her safety.

Madeline is a white female with brown hair and hazel eyes. She stands approximately 5’3″ tall with an average build. Madeline was last seen in downtown Grand Rapids, but no description of her clothing is available. Her intended destination is also unknown.

Wyoming Police continue to search for Madeline.

Anyone with information regarding Madeline’s whereabouts is asked to contact Wyoming Police detectives at 616-530-7300 or Silent Observer at 616-774-2345; 1-866- 774-2345; or https://www.silentobserver.org.

Wyoming PD releases statement regarding domestic situation Dec. 29

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(Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)


By WKTV Staff

deborah@wktv.org


On Sunday, Dec. 29, the Wyoming Police Department responded to an incident that occurred on Maplelawn Street SW in Wyoming.

Below is a statement released by Wyoming Public Safety to provide clarity regarding this incident:

“Earlier today, officers responded to a domestic situation near Maplelawn and Buchanan.

Following an argument, the male turned on the gas in the home and threatened to cause an explosion. Officers evacuated nearby homes out of an abundance of caution while DTE and the fire department turned off the gas.

After several hours, the man exited the residence and is now with the Wyoming Police.“

The Wyoming PD also revealed that the above situation was not a hostage situation, though additional details are not being released at this time.

DTE services restoration

Wyoming Public Safety does not have a restoration timeline for any DTE services. All inquiries regarding restoration timelines should be directed to DTE.

Wyoming PD receives heartfelt thank you from community and iCI Nation

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Community members took turns verbally expressing gratitude for Wyoming police officers and their service to the community (Courtesy, iCI Nation)


By Deborah Reed

WKTV Managing Editor

deborah@wktv.org


Wyoming police officers were the recipients of heartfelt appreciation and gratitude from community members on Thursday, Dec. 12.

While snow, wind and ice descended upon West Michigan – closing numerous schools and forcing many residents to work from home – Wyoming police officers donned uniforms and reported for duty.

As officers filed into the police station at 7 a.m. for a routine training session, they were met by 15 community members who took turns verbally expressing gratitude for the officers’ service to the community.

WPD officers listen as presentation participants share their personal ties to the law enforcement community (Courtesy, iCI Nation)

Coordinated by iCI Nation founder Jennifer Franson and sponsored by W2W Healthy You, the Christmas Connect presentation featured a hot breakfast prepared by Wyoming Police Chief Kim Koster, Captain Eric Wiler, and Captain Tim Pols, as well as over several dozen donuts from Marge’s Donut Den.

“In the spirit of the season, we get to lead with peace and goodwill,” said Franson in supplied material.

Voicing gratitude

In a show of love and support, local community members – including residents, pastors, media professionals, nonprofit leaders, and more – honored the gathered police officers by each voicing an individual thank you, sharing personal ties to the law enforcement community, and praying over the officers before leaving.

(Courtesy, iCI Nation)

“All of these people came here, in this weather, because they understand and appreciate everything you do,” Franson told the WPD officers during the presentation. “We know that you all are going out and dealing with things every day that we don’t want to have to deal with.”

(Courtesy, iCI Nation)

Franson went on to say that it is important for local law enforcement officers to know that the community recognizes and supports their work as they put their lives on the line each day to keep our community safe.

“We want you to know that we’ve got your back,” one community member told WPD officers during the presentation.

Strengthening our cities

iCI Nation has been building successful partnerships between community and law enforcement since 2016. The local nonprofit is dedicated to providing a healthy environment that brings citizens, police officers and organizational resources together to create a stronger and healthier city.

“ICI reignites police hearts and passion for the mission of protecting and serving,” says Wyoming Police Chief Kim Koster. (iCI Nation website)

  • Javon Sanders (front) of the GRPD talks with WPD officers (Courtesy, iCI Nation)
  • Tracy, W2W Healthy You Lead Education Instructor, explains to officers how their work positively impacts youth (Courtesy, iCI Nation)
  • (Courtesy, iCI Nation)
  • (Courtesy, iCI Nation)
  • (Courtesy, iCI Nation)
  • (Courtesy, iCI Nation)
  • (Courtesy, iCI Nation)
  • (Courtesy, iCI Nation)

Those connections are forged through monthly iCI Nation events for the community and police, including prayer gatherings for the faith community, presentations, and lunch and learns. The organization also builds collaborations through various local organizations and events.

Craig G. Founder of the PeaceWalker Project says, “The difference that iCI has made in this community is nothing short of extraordinary.” (iCI Nation website)

Learn more about iCI Nation and how you can help honor local law enforcement here.

(Courtesy, iCI Nation)

UPDATE: Wyoming police locate endangered missing person

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The Wyoming Police Department is asking for assistance in locating 71-year-old Marie Decosey, pictured above (Courtesy, Wyoming PD)


By WKTV Staff

deborah@wktv.org


UPDATE:

Marie Decosey was located safe on Nov. 4, 2024.

The Wyoming Police Department thanks the public for their assistance in locating her.

Original Announcement

The Wyoming Police Department is asking for assistance in locating 71-year-old Marie Decosey.

Marie was last seen near 56th Street SW and Byron Center Avenue in the City of Wyoming on Nov. 3, 2024 at approximately 5 p.m. Marie suffers from dementia and left this area on foot in an unknown direction. She has not been heard from or seen since.

Marie is a white female with gray hair, approximately 5’4” tall and has a thin build. She was last seen wearing a navy-blue scrub jacket, pink shirt, black sweatpants, black shoes, glasses, and walks with a cane.

Wyoming Police continue to search for Marie.

If Marie is located or seen, please contact Wyoming Police at 616-530-7300 or 911.

Wyoming crash leaves one person dead, remains under investigation

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A Wyoming male resident is dead after a crash in the 3400 block of Burlingame Avenue SW (Courtesy, pxhere)


By WKTV Staff

deborah@wktv.org


One person is dead after a crash in the 3400 block of Burlingame Avenue SW.

At approximately 1:40 a.m. Oct. 25, police and fire personnel from the Wyoming Department of Public Safety responded to the 3400 block of Burlingame Avenue SW on the report of an individual riding a skateboard that had just been struck by a vehicle. Despite lifesaving efforts, the victim, a 22-year-old male resident of Wyoming, died at the scene.

Street view of the 3400 block of Burlingame Avenue SW (Courtesy, Google Maps)

Preliminary investigation indicates the male was riding a skateboard in the travel lanes of Burlingame Avenue when he was struck by a southbound vehicle. The driver of the vehicle remained at the scene to speak with police.

It is unknown at this time if alcohol or speed were a factor in this incident. The Wyoming Police Accident Investigation and Forensic Science Units are continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding this incident.

Anyone with information regarding this incident is asked to contact Wyoming Police at 616-530-7300 or Silent Observer at 616-774-2345; 1-866-774-2345; or https://www.silentobserver.org.

FOUND: Wyoming Police locate endangered missing person

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Patrick Mateo (Courtesy, Wyoming PD)


By Wyoming Public Safety

deborah@wktv.org


Patrick Mateo was located alive and is receiving medical treatment.

Grandville Police Department responded to a welfare check of an individual lying in the grass near Wilson Avenue and Indian Mounds Drive. Upon arrival, police recognized the individual as Patrick Mateo. Patrick was transported to an area hospital for medical treatment.

Wyoming Police would like to thank the public and area law enforcement agencies for assisting with the Patrick Mateo search.

Original Press Release

The Wyoming Police Department is asking for assistance in locating 67-year-old Patrick Mateo.

Patrick was last seen near 28th Street and De Hoop Avenue SW in the City of Wyoming on Aug. 24, 2024, at approximately 2 p.m. Patrick suffers from Alzheimer’s and left this area on foot to an unknown destination. He has not been heard from or seen since.

Patrick is a Hispanic male with gray hair, approximately 5’8” tall and has a thin build. He was last seen wearing a black hat, gray sweater, green dress shirt, blue jeans and sunglasses.

Wyoming Police continue to search for Patrick. Anyone in the area of 28th Street and De Hoop Avenue SW is asked to be on the lookout for Patrick; if he is located or seen please contact Wyoming Police at 616-530-7300 or 911.

Fatal crash under investigation by Wyoming Police Department

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Wyoming PD continues to investigate fatal crash on South Division Avenue (Courtesy photo)


By Wyoming Police Department


One person is dead, and two are injured after a crash in the 3200 block of South Division Avenue.

At approximately 2:15 p.m. on Feb. 23, police and fire personnel from the Wyoming Department of Public Safety responded to the 3200 block of South Division Avenue on the report of a crash involving two vehicles. Department of Public Safety personnel arrived and found one of the involved vehicles on fire. The fire was quickly extinguished by WYFD personnel.

Wyoming Fire Department (Courtesy, Joanne Bailey-Boorsma)

Preliminary investigation indicates after the two vehicles collided one then struck a utility pole and caught fire. A 35-year-old female resident of Wyoming, who was a passenger in the car that hit the pole, died at the scene. Additionally, two individuals sustained minor injuries and received medical treatment.

Drivers of both vehicles remained at the scene to speak with investigators. Speed and alcohol are not believed to be factors in this incident.

The Wyoming Police Accident Investigation and Forensic Science Units are continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding this crash.

Anyone with information regarding this incident is asked to contact Wyoming Police at 616-530-7300 or Silent Observer at 616-774-2345; 1-866-774-2345; or https://www.silentobserver.org.

Wyoming Public Safety investigates weekend shooting, car accident

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Wyoming Public Safety

Wyoming Department of Public Safety is investigating two incidents – a shooting and a serious traffic accident – that took place over the weekend.

 

At around 10:43 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 15, the Wyoming Department of Public Safety responded to the report of shots being fired in the area of Francis and 36th Street SE. A second caller was able to give a description of the vehicle and reported seeding an occupant fire rounds toward a residence. Officers later confirmed that several rounds had been fired into an occupied residence in the 100 block of 36th Street SE.

 

While checking the area, an officer located a vehicle matching the suspect description. The officer attempted a traffic stop on the vehicle which had pulled into a driveway near the location of the initial shots being fired. At one point during the stop, the driver fled the scene by driving forward and through the backyard of the residence. The vehicle continued and, after crashing through a fence, was again located by an officer near 36th Street and Division. The driver refused to stop and eventually turned north on Jefferson Avenue from 36th Street. The officer observed the vehicle continuing at a high rate of speed across 32nd Street where it left the roadway, striking a tree near the 3100 block of Jefferson Avenue.

 

Two occupants were removed from the vehicle and the driver was extricated by Wyoming Fire personnel. All three occupants were taken to local hospitals where they were being treated for non-life threatening injuries. A loaded firearm was located in the vehicle. The incident remains under investigation.

 

In unrelated incident, the Wyoming Department of Public Safety responded around 8:30 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 16, to a vehicle traffic crash on South Division Avenue and Avonlea Street SW. The crash occurred when a south bound vehicle driven by a 31-year-old male from Wyoming hit a 24-year-old male from Wyoming. The driver of the vehicle and two other witnesses stated that the pedestrian stepped off the curb directly into the path of the vehicle without looking. The 24-year-old male, identified as Carlos Moncrief, was transported to a local hospital in serious but stable condition.

 

Wyoming Public Safety officers continue their investigations into both the crash and the shooting. Anyone with information on either incident is asked to call the Wyoming Department of Public Safety at 616-530-7300 or Silent Observer at 616-774-2345.