Lansing Community Mourns the Heartbreaking Loss of 18-Year-Old Daviahn Lathan, Victim of Tragic South Side Shooting

💔 Lansing Community Mourns the Heartbreaking Loss of 18-Year-Old Daviahn Lathan, Victim of Tragic South Side Shooting

LANSING, Mich. — The Lansing community is in deep mourning following the tragic death of 18-year-old Daviahn Lathan, who was identified by the Lansing Police Department as the victim of a Tuesday afternoon shooting on the city’s south side. The devastating news has left family, friends, and neighbors heartbroken as they try to come to terms with the loss of a young life filled with promise, hope, and potential.

According to police, officers were called to the area Tuesday afternoon following reports of shots fired. Upon arrival, they discovered Lathan suffering from gunshot wounds. Despite the immediate efforts of first responders and emergency personnel, he was pronounced deceased at the scene. Investigators with the Lansing Police Department’s Violent Crimes Unit are actively pursuing leads, interviewing witnesses, and reviewing evidence to determine the circumstances surrounding the shooting.

The tragedy has struck a deep chord throughout Lansing, particularly in the south side community where Daviahn was well known. Friends and loved ones describe him as a bright, kind-hearted young man with a contagious smile and a passion for life. He was a son, a friend, a student, and a dreamer — someone who had just begun stepping into adulthood, full of potential and determination to make a better life for himself and those he loved.

“Daviahn was one of the good ones,” said a family friend. “He was respectful, caring, and always tried to do right by people. It’s so hard to understand how something like this could happen to him.”

Those who knew him best recall his deep love for family and his commitment to being a positive influence on those around him. Whether he was hanging out with friends, playing basketball, or helping his younger siblings, Daviahn’s gentle nature and uplifting spirit touched everyone he met.

“He had dreams — real dreams,” said one classmate. “He talked about going to college, starting a business, doing something that would make his mom proud. It’s just so unfair that his story had to end this way.”

As news of Daviahn’s death spread, an outpouring of grief and tributes flooded social media, with classmates, teachers, and community members expressing their heartbreak and disbelief. Many shared photos, memories, and messages honoring his life — remembering him as a young man full of love, laughter, and hope.

“He didn’t deserve this,” wrote one post. “He was too young, too full of life. Rest easy, Dae — we’ll never forget you.”

The Lansing Police Department continues to investigate the shooting, urging anyone with information to come forward. Authorities have emphasized that community cooperation is essential to ensuring justice for Daviahn and to preventing further tragedies in the city.

In the wake of this senseless act, community leaders and anti-violence advocates are once again calling for unity, support, and renewed efforts to address the ongoing issue of gun violence that continues to claim young lives.

“This loss is a tragedy for Lansing,” said a local pastor. “Another mother is grieving, another family is broken, and another light has gone out too soon. We must come together — as a community — to stop this cycle of violence and protect our youth.”

A candlelight vigil is being planned in Daviahn’s honor, where family, friends, and residents will gather to celebrate his life, share memories, and stand together in grief and solidarity.

In a statement, the Lathan family expressed their heartbreak and gratitude for the outpouring of support:

“Daviahn was our world — a loving son, brother, and friend. His smile could brighten any room, and his heart was pure. We are devastated beyond words but grateful for the love and prayers we’ve received from the community. Please continue to keep us in your thoughts as we mourn the loss of our beloved Daviahn.”

As Lansing mourns, one truth remains — Daviahn Lathan’s life mattered. Though his time on earth was short, his kindness, laughter, and light will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.

Rest in peace, Daviahn Lathan — gone too soon, but never forgotten. 🕊️💔