Macomb Community College performing arts center reopens after body removed from vent system
A performing arts center in Metro Detroit reopened over the weekend with performances of "The Nutcracker," days after a body was found in the building's ventilation system.
The body was discovered on Nov. 26 while authorities were investigating a foul odor at the Macomb Center for the Performing Arts in Clinton Township, which is part of Macomb Community College.
Foul play was ruled out. Investigators believe Jason Thompson, 36, of Clinton Township, squeezed himself into the vent system through an opening on the roof, probably in late October.
An autopsy determined that he had suffocated. Thompson's family had reported him missing on Nov. 1.
"There are indications in the investigation through family that he suffered some mental health concerns and issues," said William Leavens, the college police chief.
There were arrest warrants out for Thompson, but police weren't actively looking for him, said Leavens, who didn't disclose the specific charges.
The performing arts center reopened for public performances after a contractor cleaned the vents.
Months after the incident, on March 20, Macomb Community College announced it closed the investigation into Thompson's death after they received the final reports from the medical examiner and the forensic exam of his phone.
The medical examiner's report confirmed that Thompson's death was accidental and caused by asphyxia due to entrapment and environmental suffocation. It also showed that Thompson had fentanyl and methamphetamines in his system, according to Jeanne M. Nicol, the executive director of communications and public relations at Macomb Community College.
The forensic search of the phone didn't provide authorities with any information that would be useful to the investigation.
