Police discovered human remains inside a freezer at an East Lansing, Michigan, townhouse after neighbors reported suspicious signs at the property in the 1500 block of Wintercrest Street, marking the beginning of a complex homicide investigation that has shocked the local community.
The discovery on Thursday, November 7, 2024, occurred when law enforcement officials responded to multiple 911 calls reporting blood and unusual odors at the residence. Upon arrival, officers confirmed there was dried blood on the floor, though they found no evidence of forced entry.
During the initial investigation, officials located what appeared to be the remains of two people stored inside a freezer within the home. The identities of the deceased have not been released pending further investigation and notification of next of kin.
East Lansing Interim Police Chief Chad Pride informed a local news outlet that uncovering the circumstances surrounding how and why the remains ended up in the freezer may be challenging. Pride indicated that this likely did not occur recently, suggesting it happened some time ago.
He hoped for a swift discovery to bring peace of mind to the public, the families involved, and the neighbors. Residents had noticed concerning signs in the days leading up to the discovery.
A resident living close to the townhouse said he hadn’t seen any activity at the property for several months. Andrew Whitney described the unsettling realization, noting they had been wondering how many nights they might have been sleeping just a few feet away from what may have been a body inside.
He added that the circumstances suggested something violent and serious must have taken place, which has deeply unsettled the neighborhood.
The Michigan State Police Forensics Unit arrived on the scene to process evidence. Officers were observed removing multiple items from the residence, including the freezer containing the remains. All collected evidence has been transported to the state crime laboratory for detailed analysis.
Property records indicate renters had occupied the townhouse, though police have not confirmed whether the current leaseholders are connected to the investigation. The property management company responsible for the unit is cooperating with law enforcement.
The investigation has expanded to include the FBI’s Violent Crimes Task Force, which will assist local authorities with forensic analysis and interstate inquiries.
This discovery occurred just over three months after a Detroit mother was sentenced for causing the fatal injuries of her young son in 2022 and subsequently placing his body in a freezer in the basement.