Police: missing gun is not believed to be in Pentwater

PENTWATER — Police no longer believe that a missing gun is in Pentwater.

The missing gun, which is believed to be loaded, is connected to a felonious assault arrest following a disturbance that occurred Saturday, May 17, at 12:40 a.m.

The Pentwater Police Department asked for the public’s assistance in locating the gun on Lowell Street between Hancock and Mears streets Saturday, but are now saying it is no longer believed to be in Pentwater.

“Investigators are continuing their investigation and acting on the belief that the weapon is no longer in Pentwater,” states a press release issued by the Pentwater Police Department Monday, May 19. “Investigators do not believe this incident represents an ongoing threat to the community at large.”

Officers from the Pentwater Police Department, Oceana County Sheriff’s Office, Mason County Sheriff’s Office, and the Hart Police Department responded to a disturbance call in the 400 block of West Lowell Street Saturday. A suspect was arrested for felonious assault and was lodged at the Oceana County Jail.

“On behalf of the Pentwater Police Department and the Oceana County Sheriff’s Office, we want to thank the citizen who responded to our previous news release,” states Monday’s press release.

“On May 17, 2025, investigators located additional evidence and witnesses to the events of early that morning. Pentwater police and Oceana County Sheriff’s Office were assisted by an MSP canine unit, specifically trained in firearm detection, while executing a search warrant during the evening hours of May 17, 2025. Evidence was recovered during the search.

“We are very fortunate to have a community that supports law enforcement. This is an example of how law enforcement and the public can work together to keep everyone safe. We would not have been able to gather the additional evidence were it not for the support we received,” said Pentwater Police Chief Laude Hartrum. 

“The Oceana County Sheriff’s Office will continue to work with the Pentwater Police Department to keep that community safe,” said Oceana County Sheriff Craig Mast. “Our partnership with local law enforcement agencies is crucial to the success of our mission. We must continue to operate as a team and use our resources to the best of our ability. Chief Hartrum is and always has been a great law enforcement partner.”

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