Authorities say an autopsy conducted on Richard Lee Russ, a 59-year-old man found dead earlier this week, revealed no signs of physical trauma as the investigation continues.
According to the Jackson Police Department, the cause of death has not yet been determined. Officials are now awaiting toxicology test results, which could take several weeks to complete.
Investigation Still Ongoing
Police Chief Chris Simpson confirmed that investigators are continuing to examine the circumstances surrounding Russ’s death. Toxicology analysis is expected to play a key role in determining what led to the incident.
Body Found After Report Call
Russ was discovered on Sunday, March 22, in the 300 block of West Prospect Street in Jackson. Officers responded to a report of a body at around 1:30 p.m., where they found him deceased at the scene.
Authorities noted that Russ was known locally as someone experiencing homelessness. No obituary has been located.
Background Information
Records from the Michigan Department of Corrections indicate that Russ had prior encounters with the criminal justice system, primarily involving non-violent offenses such as theft dating back several decades.
What Comes Next
Investigators are awaiting laboratory findings to establish the official cause of death. Until then, police say the case remains open.