Matthew David Lyzen, a 23-year-old male, disappeared on or after January 25, 2014, after attending the Fire and Ice Festival in downtown Rochester. His disappearance sparked concern among family and friends, leading to a months-long search effort involving over 150 volunteers who scoured wooded areas along the Clinton River and Paint Creek trails. Before he went missing, Lyzen had exhibited unusual behavior by dining alone at expensive restaurants and leaving 'ridiculously large' tips, which
was out of character for him.
The search for Matthew concluded tragically seven months after he was last seen. On September 5, 2014, his remains were discovered by a worker clearing land on private property in a wooded area in Rochester, only a few blocks from where he had last been seen. The location was along the Clinton River Trail. Due to the condition of the body, dental records were used to confirm his identity.
The Oakland County Medical Examiner's Office investigated the death and officially ruled it a suicide. A handgun was found near his body. There were no suspects or arrests in connection with his death. His family shared that Matthew had suffered from major depressive episodes for years, which began in his early adolescence. They expressed a wish for greater public education about suicide and encouraged donations to organizations that support suicide prevention and intervention in his memory.
