On December 6, 2025, Cori Marie-May Watts, a 22-year-old from Muskegon, Michigan, was tragically killed in a shooting that also claimed another life. Muskegon police reported that the shooting happened around 3:15 p.m. at a home on the 600 block of Jackson Avenue, near McLaren Street, in the Jackson Hill area.
A dispute inside the residence grew more serious after several people arrived, leading to gunfire that injured five individuals. Law enforcement believes the incident may have been robbery-related. Two people died, and three others were hurt. Officers contained the area and provided assistance to the victims.
Watts suffered multiple gunshot wounds and was taken to Trinity Health Muskegon Hospital, where she later died. The Muskegon County Medical Examiner’s Office confirmed that her death resulted from complications due to gunshot trauma. Joshua Fondren Jr., 25, was also killed at the scene. Two other men, both 25, were critically injured, and a 4-year-old child received a superficial wound and is expected to make a full recovery.
A Muskegon native, Watts completed her studies at Muskegon High School in 2021. During her time there, she was involved in the culinary program, which prepared her for a position as a prep cook at a local restaurant. She combined part-time work with online classes in hospitality management at Muskegon Community College, aspiring eventually to launch her own catering operation featuring soul food recipes handed down by her grandmother.
Watts placed great importance on family. As the oldest of four children, she frequently coordinated holiday baking with her parents—both longtime factory employees—and helped care for her younger brothers when school was out. Her household in Jackson Hill was closely connected, and regular neighborhood events helped maintain strong ties with extended family throughout the eastern part of the city.
She led an energetic life, playing in weekend volleyball leagues at community parks where she served as a team captain. Among her interests were writing out imaginative menu ideas and searching secondhand stores for classic cookbooks. She often started her day with a walk by Lake Michigan, using the time for quiet thought and for drafting concepts that combined regional Midwestern and Southern cuisines.
Her family has initiated a GoFundMe campaign to help cover funeral costs, with final arrangements to be managed by Clock Funeral Home and Cremation Services in Muskegon.
