Body Found in Rochester Elementary School Parking Lot; Investigation Underway

ROCHESTER, Mich. — A tragic discovery Wednesday afternoon prompted a large law enforcement response to McGregor Elementary School, where a woman was found dead in the school’s parking lot.

The Discovery

According to the Oakland County Sheriff’s Office, deputies were called to the school grounds near Livernois and Walton Boulevard shortly after 3:00 p.m. Reports indicate that a vehicle in the lot drew the attention of authorities, who upon arrival confirmed the presence of a deceased woman.

Police stressed that no students or staff were harmed in connection with the incident. The school day had already ended, and authorities immediately secured the area while emergency crews responded.

What Investigators Know So Far

While investigators have not yet released the woman’s identity, preliminary indicators suggest the death may have been a suicide, though the case remains under investigation.

Aerial footage captured by MDN showed a heavy law enforcement presence around a vehicle, with firefighters and deputies working nearby. Observers also noted the presence of what appeared to be dry ice, though police have not confirmed how or if it was connected to the incident.

The Sheriff’s Office has not released a cause of death pending further investigation and autopsy results.

School District Statement

At approximately 7:00 p.m., Rochester Community Schools issued a public statement to reassure parents, students, and staff:

“Earlier today, local police investigated a situation unrelated to the school community that was confined to a parking space at McGregor Elementary School. The area has been cleared. All students and staff are safe. Classes will continue at McGregor Elementary on Thursday, Sept. 18, 2025. It appears rumors were circulating about a chemical leak. Local law enforcement has confirmed that the rumors are false, and that at no time was any member of our school community at risk of being harmed.”

Community Reassurance

News of the discovery circulated quickly across Rochester, with many parents voicing concern over the initial reports. Officials emphasized that the incident posed no threat to the school or surrounding community.

Counselors are expected to be available for staff and students as needed in the coming days.

If You Need Help

Authorities are treating the case with sensitivity, noting that circumstances point to a possible suicide. They urge the public to reach out for help if they or someone they know is struggling.

Call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 988 or 1-800-273-8255 for free, confidential support.
Text 741-741 to connect with the Crisis Text Line.
Veterans and their loved ones can press “1” after dialing 988 to be connected with the Veterans Crisis Line.

Moving Forward

As investigators work to determine the woman’s identity and the events leading up to her death, the Sheriff’s Office has pledged to share updates as they become available. In the meantime, McGregor Elementary will continue normal operations under the reassurance that students and staff were never at risk.