NOVI (WWJ) -- An investigation is underway into a medical facility in Novi after one patient was found dead in the parking lot, and several other patients were hospitalized.
On Sunday, June 21, Novi Police got a call about a missing person, who was last seen at the DaVita Dialysis Center, located at 27150 Providence Parkway in Novi.
The family became concerned, police said, when the patient didn't return home after their appointment at the center.
Police began looking for the person, and found them dead in a vehicle in the parking lot.
Authorities stated there is currently no indication of foul play in connection with the person's death.
Investigation reveals multiple hospitalizations
As the investigation moved forward, Novi Police contacted the emergency department at Henry Ford Providence Novi Hospital. They discovered that several other patients who had recently undergone treatment at the same DaVita Dialysis Center had also sought emergency medical care.
Officials have identified five hospitalizations linked to recent dialysis treatments:
- Four patients at Henry Ford Providence Novi Hospital had recently been treated at the Novi DaVita location, including one patient who remains in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU).
- A fifth patient was hospitalized after receiving treatment at a DaVita facility in nearby Southfield.
Clinic closed as a precaution
At this time, investigators emphasize that no definitive link has been established between the patient's death, the illnesses, and the treatments received at the DaVita Dialysis locations.
"Novi Police are working closely with the Oakland County Health Division and the State of Michigan as the investigation continues," authorities said in a statement.
As a precautionary measure, the Oakland County Health Division has requested the temporary closure of the Novi DaVita Dialysis Center while the investigation is ongoing.
A DaVita spokesperson released the following statement:
“We are aware of the incident and out of respect for patient privacy, we are unable to comment on its specifics. Our unwavering focus remains on delivering exceptional care for our patients, many of which are medically vulnerable with complex care needs. We are proud to be part of the Novi community and care for our patients with the same intensity and commitment we bring to our teams.”
Anyone with information about this case should call the Novi PD at 248-348-7100.
Several more patients were hospitalized, according to police
Several more patients were hospitalized, according to police
