MOUNT CLEMENS (WWJ) – The Macomb County Sheriff’s Office is investigating after a woman was found dead earlier this week behind a dumpster in Mt. Clemens.
According to the Sheriff’s Office, deputies were called to North Main Street at 3:48 a.m. on Tuesday, Jan. 20, for a report of a person lying behind a dumpster. The call was reported by a waste disposal driver who was trying to empty the dumpster.
The woman was identified as Moneque Cook, 53, from Eastpointe. She was pronounced dead at an area hospital.
Detectives say they are continuing the investigation, but don’t believe there’s any threat to the public.
Investigators did not say the cause of Cook’s death, but provided shelter options to residents.
Mayor of Mount Clemens Laura Kropp issued a statement after the tragic loss, saying the woman appeared to have died after freezing to death behind the dumpster, but said they are still waiting for the official cause of death.
Mayor Kropp said, “my heart goes out to this woman, to those who knew her, and to anyone who is struggling, unhoused, or vulnerable—especially during the harsh winter months.”
She’s asking residents to look out for neighbors in need. The National Weather Service suggests checking in on neighbors and the elderly during extremely cold weather.
Warming centers and information about overnight shelters can be found on the Macomb County website, here.