MUSKEGON, Mich. — A Fruitport Township grandfather and his 16-year-old relative both face charges tied to the deadly shooting 14-year-old Rylen Yager.
Greg Hulka was arraigned Friday on one count of failing to properly store a firearm resulting in the death of his grandson, Rylen Yager. A 16-year-old relative of Hulka and Yager faces a charge of manslaughter as a juvenile in the case, according to the Muskegon County Prosecutor's Office.
WATCH: Grandfather arraigned on charges in grandson's death
On January 24, Hulka had his relatives over at his house on on Romedius Street. A gun owned by Hulka was allegedly left out where the teen could get a hold of it. The 16-year-old was holding the firearm when it went off, shooting Yager, according to Michigan State Police.
Muskegon
UPDATE: Fruitport Schools identifies 14-year-old boy killed in weekend shooting
Originally, the Fruitport Township Police Department responded to the scene, but the investigation was turned over to state police because of Hulka's position as a trustee.
Days after the shooting, the Muskegon County Prosecutor's Office told FOX 17 Muskegon Reporter Olivia Yatooma charges were possible against the gun owner and the relative who had the gun. Now both Hulka and the teen have been charged.
In court on Friday, Hulka's attorney said he loves his grandsons and wants to reduce the stress on the family.
"A tragic, tragic accident,and I would describe my client as being as distraught as anybody I've ever represented," the attorney told the judge.
Hulka waived his right to any future hearings in district court. His case was bound over to Muskegon County Circuit Court.
He was released on a personal recognizance bond.
If convicted, Hulka could be ordered to spend up to 15 years in prison and pay $10,000 in fines.
The teen relative faces his charge in family court, where his identity will remain out of the public. FOX 17 is purposefully not identifying the teen's suspect relationship with the victim.
FRUITPORT EDUCATORS REMEMBER TEEN
Rylen Yager was a student at Fruitport Middle School. Superintendent Jason Kennedy described him as a light in the district.
"Rylen is known for his infectious smile, his positive energy, his kind and compassionate, caring attitude towards others," Kennedy said. "It's a heavy burden that I feel on my shoulders to ensure that our school and our community is able to honor and celebrate the life of Rylen."
Muskegon
Fruitport Community Schools remembers 14-year-old Rylen Yager after tragic loss
Fruitport schools provided support to students and staff with an emotional support and crisis response teams being made available.
