KDPS Addresses Misinformation Following Stockbridge Avenue Death

Published on December 16, 2025

The Kalamazoo Department of Public Safety (KDPS) is releasing the following information to address and correct misinformation circulating regarding a recent death investigation.

On Monday, December 15, 2025, at 8:21 a.m., KDPS officers were dispatched to the 1000 block of Stockbridge Avenue for a report of a possible suicide. The caller reported an individual located outside a building and was unable to determine whether the person was breathing.

Upon arrival, officers located a deceased 60-year-old man near the northeast corner of a building. Medical personnel determined the individual had been deceased prior to officers’ arrival.

A thorough investigation was conducted by the KDPS Criminal Investigations Division, including a review of scene evidence and available video footage. The investigation confirmed the man acted alone. The individual was not hanging from a tree as was initially reported, and there is no evidence to support claims of an assault. No suspicious circumstances or foul play were discovered. The death has been determined to be a suicide.

As a standard practice, KDPS does not typically issue news releases regarding suicides or deaths resulting from natural causes, as doing so can create additional trauma for families and loved ones. We ask the community to avoid speculation and to be mindful of the harm that misinformation can cause to grieving families and the broader community.

KDPS extends its deepest condolences to the family and loved ones affected by this loss.

If you or someone you know is struggling or experiencing thoughts of suicide, help is available. Locally, Gryphon Place provides confidential crisis support 24 hours a day at 269-381-1510. You can also call or text 988 to reach the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline for immediate support.

By authority of: Public Information Officer Zach Hamelton