Lansing, Mich. — A homicide investigation is underway in Eaton County following the discovery of skeletal remains at the scene of a fire in Windsor Township. The remains, later identified as 38-year-old Lansing resident Lance Pollo, were found by first responders who extinguished a blaze in two outbuildings on February 10. The fire was reported at approximately 3:08 p.m. in the 10000 block of E. Vermontville Highway.
According to the Eaton County Sheriff’s Office, the Windsor Township Fire Department and deputies responded to the fire and, upon extinguishing the flames, discovered human skeletal remains among the charred debris. The sheriff’s office quickly called in a team of investigators, including the University of Michigan-Sparrow Medical Examiner’s Office and the Michigan State Police Forensic Science Division, to assist in the case.
After more than a month of analysis and collaboration, the Michigan State Police Crime Lab identified the remains as belonging to Pollo, who had been reported missing. Medical examiners determined that Pollo had been shot and killed, prompting the Eaton County Sheriff’s Office to officially classify the death as a homicide.
Pollo had a history of legal troubles. In 2018, he was convicted of fourth-degree criminal sexual conduct, which led to a brief stint in prison. Family members revealed that Pollo had recently spent time in Clinton County Jail on a check fraud conviction, which had resulted in a violation of his probation terms. That probation violation led to an additional 60 days served in Ingham County Jail. According to deputies, Pollo was released from jail just days before the discovery of his remains, on February 1.
The Eaton County Sheriff’s Office is continuing to investigate Pollo’s death, examining his past criminal history and potential leads. Lt. Aaron Campbell, a spokesperson for the sheriff’s office, emphasized the importance of public assistance in the case. “We are asking anyone who may have had contact with Lance Pollo, or anyone who may know his associates, friends, or anyone who can provide information, to come forward,” Campbell said. “We can’t solve this without the public’s help.”
Detectives are urging anyone with information to contact Detective Ted Johnson at 517-213-6121 or Lieutenant Aaron Campbell at 517-543-5419. The sheriff’s office is determined to uncover the circumstances surrounding Pollo’s death and bring those responsible to justice.
