Michigan man arrested after his father died of dehydration

CLINTON TOWNSHIP, Mich. (TCN) -- A 51-year-old caretaker faces charges in connection with the death of his 77-year-old father, who was found deceased in his bed from dehydration.

According to the Macomb County Prosecutor’s Office, on Nov. 3, 2024, a neighbor called police after noticing Michael Stirling trying to enter his home "while appearing disoriented." Responding police gained entry to the residence and located the body of Michael Stirling’s father, James Stirling. An autopsy later revealed he died of dehydration, and his death was ruled a homicide.

Michael Stirling reportedly informed authorities that he was the victim’s live-in caretaker, and he initially claimed he last saw his father the previous day. Michael Stirling allegedly later said he left the house on Oct. 30, 2024, and arranged for someone to care for him. However, prosecutors said that the would-be caretaker wasn’t found, and the phone number Michael Stirling provided didn’t work.

Michael Stirling was arraigned on charges of homicide — manslaughter, vulnerable adult abuse, and habitual offender on Aug. 6. A judge set his bond at $250,000.

In a statement, Macomb County Prosecutor Peter Lucido said, "Today’s arraignment involves serious allegations that, according to the charges, resulted in the death of a vulnerable senior. My office remains committed to protecting the elderly in our community. When those entrusted with a loved one’s care are alleged to have failed in that duty, and harm results, we take those cases seriously and will pursue justice through the legal process."

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