By ZEINAB NAJM
Times-Herald Newspapers
HEIGHTS — A Dearborn Heights man visiting friends at Central Michigan University over the weekend was found dead Sunday in a pond on campus.
Michael Anthony Hartnett, 18, a graduate of Crestwood High School, was reported missing at 2:15 p.m. Sunday on the CMU campus. Police found the body in a pond near Park Library before 7 p.m.
Hartnett’s father reported his son missing. The father told campus police that his son’s friends saw Hartnett earlier that morning. They were contacted by the police and began a search to find Hartnett, according to a CMU press release.
CMU police pinged Hartnett’s cell phone, which showed that its last location was close to St. Mary’s Catholic Church and the library about 2 a.m. before it died, CMU Police Chief Bill Yeagley said in the release.
After the group searched the area, Hartnett’s body was located in the pond.
“Two of Michael’s friends jumped in, followed by a police officer concerned for the friends’ safety. They were not able to retrieve Michael’s body; there were no signs of life,” the release said.
Shortly after, the police surrounded the area to investigate further. They called the Isabella County dive team, who recovered Hartnett’s body from the pond about 7 p.m.
“The friends were taken to St. Mary’s, where they were supported by clergy and a CMU counseling team,” according to the release.
An autopsy was performed on Monday. The investigation remains open and anyone with information can contact campus police at 989-774-3081.
After the news hit Hartnett’s friends and family, a GoFundMe account was created to raise money to help his family hold a memorial for him.
“His family and friends need prayers and good thoughts at this time,” the account description reads. “Michael’s friends also ask that you donate to assist his family in providing a memorial for him, as he was lost at such a young age.
The account also asks for prayers for Hartnett.
“If you would like to donate please do so and know that your help is appreciated during this difficult time,” it reads. “If you cannot donate, please send prayers for Michael and may he rest in peace.”
Memorial services are planned for Thursday, Oct. 9, with visitation from 2 to 8 p.m. and a 7 p.m. service at the John N. Santeiu & Son Funeral Home, 1139 N. Inkster Road in Garden City.
An in state service will be held at 10 a.m. Friday, Oct. 10, followed by a funeral service at 11 a.m. at St. Linus Catholic Church, 25500 Hass in Dearborn Heights.
(Zenib Najm can be reached at [email protected].)