Investigators remain in contact with the family of Darryl “Lonn” Hartman following recent reports suggesting he had shared information with loved ones about the events surrounding the incident, the Emmet County Sheriff’s Office said.
In a statement posted to Facebook on Thursday (July 23), the sheriff’s office said it does not share certain investigative information with non-family members.
Recommended Videos
Hartman, who mentors underprivileged kids in Detroit, remains unable to provide investigators with information about what occurred the evening of July 12 at the Blissfest Music Festival in northern Michigan, officials said.
“Should this change, we are prepared to act on any additional information that becomes available,” the sheriff’s office said.
Officials acknowledged the public interest surrounding the case and said they understand the desire for answers while recognizing the challenges Hartman and his family continue to face during his recovery.
The sheriff’s office urged anyone with information about the incident to contact investigators directly, warning that unofficial reports, social media posts and speculation can create confusion, increase distress for those involved and divert investigative resources.
Since the investigation began, the sheriff’s office said it has received hundreds of calls from people across the country offering information, asking questions, and sharing details they believe may be relevant.
Investigators are reviewing each submission to determine whether it may help advance the case.
“Even the smallest detail can become important during an investigation,” officials said.
Based on evidence reviewed so far and information received from the public, investigators said they have found no evidence indicating the incident was a targeted attack.
Officials said they understand there has been speculation and concern, but that current investigative findings do not support that conclusion.
Investigators said they will continue following new evidence as it becomes available.
Anyone with firsthand information that may assist the investigation is asked to contact the Emmet County Sheriff’s Office by emailing blissfestinvestigation@emmetcounty.org, calling 231-348-0605 or submitting a tip through the sheriff’s office mobile application.
The sheriff’s office said future updates will be provided through its official social media pages and mobile application as additional verified information becomes available.
“We remain committed to finding answers, identifying what occurred that evening, and bringing this investigation to a successful conclusion,” the sheriff’s office said.