CARROLLTON TOWNSHIP, MI – Authorities in Michigan are contemplating a murder charge against a man accused of a brutal assault on Kelley LaLonde following her death in a hospital. The 35-year-old mother of three was in critical care for several months before passing away on May 26, as noted by a fundraising campaign for her funeral.
In September 2024, Jonathan M. Zieroff, 30, faced allegations of assault with the intent to murder after a prolonged attack left LaLonde with significant injuries, including brain bleeding. Subsequent medical evaluations found her brain-dead on May 13, prompting another charge of torture against Zieroff the following day.
LaLonde’s life is celebrated in obituaries, highlighting her vibrant personality and love for music and classic television. Her passion for Elvis Presley, “I Love Lucy,” and Michigan Football united her family and friends, reflecting the joyous spirit she exuded.
The next steps for prosecutors involve awaiting autopsy and toxicology results, which will determine whether new charges against Zieroff are merited. Blair N. Stevenson, Chief Assistant Prosecutor of Saginaw County, indicated this decision might extend over the next three weeks.
The distressing case unfolded when LaLonde’s absence from work and unresponsiveness to calls prompted concern. On September 12, police discovered her in Zieroff’s residence, located roughly 40 miles northwest of Flint, in Carrollton Township. Officers reported finding her unresponsive, in a dire state, lying soaked in her own urine.
Emergency room assessments revealed grave injuries, with bruises covering her limbs and significant skull and vaginal trauma. The discovery of LaLonde in such a condition led back to suspicions about Zieroff, whose past interactions with her allegedly included unexplained bruising.
Zieroff avoided arrest immediately; police detained him on September 13 after tracking his cellphone to nearby woods. He remains in Saginaw County Jail under a $50,000 bond, initially charged with assault with intent to inflict severe harm and second-offense domestic violence.
Zieroff’s legal proceedings continue as he is scheduled to appear in court on July 3. Meanwhile, LaLonde’s children, ages 14, 11, and 3, are left to mourn a mother remembered for her warmth and enthusiasm for life.