OCP photo
The 28-year-old Illinois man died by an apparent suicide
By Allison Scarbrough, News Editor
ROTHBURY — Michigan State Police have identified the body found in a wooded area near the Hart-Montague bike trail Tuesday morning, June 30, as a missing Electric Forest Festival attendee.
“The Michigan State Police is providing an update regarding the investigation involving Jerard R. Jackson, a 28-year-old male from Illinois,” states an MSP press release.
“Jackson was last seen at approximately 10 a.m. (EDT) on Monday after leaving the Electric Forest Festival in Rothbury. Earlier that morning, troopers responded to Jackson’s campsite after he reported an alleged criminal incident involving a friend. Troopers conducted an investigation and interviewed all involved parties. Based on the information obtained, there was no evidence that an incident had occurred at the festival. Jackson left the venue alone shortly afterward.
“Jackson left his cellular phone and other personal belongings behind. During the investigation, the rental vehicle Jackson had been driving was located in the Rothbury area. The vehicle was found unoccupied with Jackson’s wallet and keys inside.
“Jackson has since been located deceased in the wooded area near where his rental vehicle was found. Based on the investigation, it appears Jackson died by suicide. There is no indication of foul play. The investigation remains ongoing pending the final report from the medical examiner.
“The Michigan State Police extends its sincere condolences to Jackson’s family and loved ones during this difficult time. If you or someone you know is struggling or experiencing a mental health crisis, help is available by calling or texting 988, the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline.”
Emergency crews were dispatched to an area west of the William Field Memorial Hart-Montague Trail near a subdivision, south of Winston Road, where a body was found Tuesday morning. The body was found in a wooded area approximately 150 feet off the trail, said MSP Sgt. Michael Cuevas.
The four-day Electric Forest Festival that attracts tens of thousands of festival goers to the Double JJ Resort just wrapped up early Monday morning.
MSP continues to investigate the discovery of a deceased newborn found in a porta-potty in the camping area at EF Sunday morning.
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