Chillicothe, OH – January 6, 2025 – Chillicothe police are investigating the death of Fredrick Lett, a local man found in an alleyway behind 160 E Main Street early Sunday morning. The incident was reported at approximately 7:30 a.m. when a passerby observed a man who appeared to be unconscious, lying in the snow-covered alley.
Upon arrival, police identified the individual as Fredrick Lett, 43, who was known to have struggled with substance abuse and was homeless. Officers reported that Lett’s body showed no signs of trauma, though he was covered in snow and appeared stiff. Chillicothe Fire Medics pronounced him dead at 7:08 a.m.
The Ross County Coroner’s Office was notified, and Investigators responded to the scene. Based on initial observations, it was determined that Lett had likely walked from the northern side of East Main Street and through the alley before collapsing. A significant number of footprints were found in the area surrounding the body, suggesting a possible stumbling walk prior to his fall.
During a subsequent search of Lett’s belongings, a small plastic bag containing a white powdery substance was discovered, as well as debit cards and an Ohio ID belonging to Lett. These items were collected as evidence for further investigation.
A preliminary autopsy indicated that Lett had an enlarged heart, but there were no signs of serious injury. Toxicology results are still pending, which may help determine the exact cause of death.
In a separate development, a local resident told investigators that Lett had been at her home shortly before his death. Rider reported that he appeared to be searching for something and had shoveled her sidewalk before leaving around 1:00 a.m. She also mentioned hearing rumors that Lett may have overdosed and been dumped in the alley.
The investigation is ongoing as authorities await further autopsy results. Lett’s family has been notified of his passing.
Authorities are also continuing to explore the possibility of video footage from nearby businesses, though efforts to locate usable footage have thus far been unsuccessful.
Anyone with additional information is urged to contact the Chillicothe Police Department. To view his obituary click here: https://www.legacy.com/us/obituaries/name/frederick-lett-obituary?id=57200429
