GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. — The Grand Rapids Police Department is investigating a body found Friday night as a "suspicious death."
At 10:30 p.m. Friday, officers responded to a report of a body being found in the 800 block of Lake Drive SE. Police said the victim found dead at the scene was a 33-year-old transgender woman, whom family has identified as Elle Yared.
"She was a wonderful person to know, generous with her time, love, and an easy person to love, she lit up the room with her smile, warm personality, style, and grace" the Yared family said to Fox 17. “Thank you for reaching out to us, my wife and I would love to share memories, but I find I cannot say more than a word or two without crying. Thank you for wanting to share Elle’s story, it was a honor to be parents to such a wonderful person, she was a delight to know and love. Her death is crushing us, but memories help us smile when we can.”
The police investigation determined that a friend of Elle, who was with her throughout the evening, recognized that she was falling in and out of consciousness and had trouble breathing.
"The City of Grand Rapids is aware of the tragic fatality Friday evening and of the reports that riding an electric scooter was potentially involved. Our thoughts and sympathies go out to the family and friends of the victim" said the City of Grand Rapids alongside Mobile GR. "Mobile GR is working closely with the Grand Rapids Police Department as it investigates the incident. No conclusions have been reached as the matter remains under investigation."
Mobile GR aims encourages those using Mobile GR scooters to do so safely.
"We remain committed to the safety of all people who use our City’s diverse transportation network. We strive to eliminate all traffic fatalities and serious injuries while increasing equitable mobility options for all users. We encourage all users of our City’s streets – including pedestrians, bicyclists, transit users, and drivers – to exercise safe walking, riding and driving habits, and to be aware of their surroundings. Doing so helps keeps everyone safer."
Medical personnel were called and responded to the scene. Lifesaving efforts were performed, but she unfortunatley died at the scene.
Police said that Elle had fallen several times during the evening, including while riding a scooter in the downtown area.
Police said alcohol may be a factor in the death.
GRPD crime scene technicians and the Kent County Medical Examiner responded to the scene, while the GRPD Major Case Team was notified.
The Kent County Medical Examiner’s Office will determine the cause of death. The Yared family plans to celebrate Elle's life in the future.
