Body Recovered from Lake Erie Identified as Missing Sterling Heights Woman

Body Recovered from Lake Erie Identified as Missing Sterling Heights Woman

MONROE COUNTY, Mich. — Authorities have identified a body recovered from Lake Erie on Saturday, March 7, 2026, as 34-year-old Jeanne Renee Peterson of Sterling Heights. Peterson had been reported missing in December 2025 after last being seen in Detroit.

According to Monroe County Sheriff Troy Goodnough, Monroe County Central Dispatch received a 911 call at approximately 11:27 a.m. reporting a body floating near the shoreline in the 13000 block of Shady Lane, near Bolles Harbor in Monroe Township. Responding members of the Monroe Township Fire Department entered the water and brought the body safely to shore.

Peterson was reported missing to the Michigan State Police on December 19, 2025, after being last seen jumping off the MacArthur Bridge in Detroit. Her body was transported to the Lucas County Coroner’s Office for an autopsy. Authorities are awaiting the results, which may provide further details regarding the circumstances of her death.

Several agencies assisted with the response, including the Monroe Township Fire Department, paramedics from MCA, chaplains from the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office, the Sheriff’s Office Victim Services Unit, and the Michigan State Police, who also helped notify Peterson’s family.

Detective Parker of the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office is leading the ongoing investigation and continues to review evidence and gather information. Authorities ask anyone with information to contact the Detective Bureau at 734-240-7530.

The recovery brings some closure to a case that had left family, friends, and the local community concerned for months. Officials continue their investigation while providing support to those affected by this tragic loss.