Body of missing man found in college ventilation system

CLINTON TOWNSHIP — Police at Macomb Community College are conducting an investigation after a man’s body was discovered in the ventilation system at one of the college’s Center Campus buildings. 

At press time, the Macomb College Police Department was awaiting a cause of death determination from the Macomb County medical examiner’s office.

According to a college news release issued Nov. 27, the body was discovered on the evening of Nov 26 after a foul odor was reported at the Macomb Center for the Performing Arts, at 44575 Garfield Road.

“There is no reason to suspect foul play,” Macomb College Police Chief William Leavens said in a prepared statement. “At this point, it is important to remember that this is an ongoing investigation, with the goal to understand the circumstances. Our deepest condolences go out to his family.”

The person found at the scene was identified as 36-year-old Clinton Township resident Jason Anthony Thompson.  He was originally reported missing to the Sterling Heights Police Department on Nov. 1 and was last seen by family on Oct. 25. 

Lt. Mario Bastianelli from the Sterling Heights Police Department said he couldn’t comment much on the investigation, as it’s ongoing and being conducted by college police. He did confirm that the Sterling Heights Police Department got a report about Thompson being missing on Nov. 1. 

“Mr. Thompson was reported missing by family members who last saw him in Sterling Heights when he left their home,” Bastianelli said in an email. “Sterling Heights Detectives exhausted every resource and led in attempts to locate Mr. Thompson.”  

Bastianelli added that campus law enforcement has since informed Sterling Heights police that they found Thompson’s body. 

“Our hearts and prayers go out to the family for the loss of their loved one,” Bastianelli added.  

Thompson was not an employee or student at the college. Classes were not canceled after the discovery and resumed on schedule. 

“The college community extends heartfelt condolences during this difficult time to Mr. Thompson’s family and friends,” the college news release states.