Grand Traverse Sheriff’s Office asks public to identify two people

The Grand Traverse County Sheriff’s Office is asking residents to help identify two people shown in photos as investigators continue an active case. Anyone who recognizes the individuals is being told to call 231-995-5000 or email Deputy Ertman at dertman@gtsheriff.org.

The request puts the public squarely into the investigation, a common move when deputies need a faster way to identify people tied to an unresolved matter. The sheriff’s office says its mission is to provide public service and safety for citizens and visitors of Grand Traverse County, and this appeal reflects that role: investigators are widening the search beyond their own circles and asking neighbors, co-workers and customers to take a close look and speak up if they know the people in the images.

For other law-enforcement needs, the county sheriff’s office lists 231-922-4550 for non-emergencies and 911 for emergencies. That distinction matters for residents who may have information related to the photos but do not need an immediate response. The current appeal is a request for identification, not an emergency alert, and the office is directing tips to the investigator handling the matter.

Grand Traverse County deputies have used the same tactic before. In a 2024 Menards-related case, the sheriff’s office asked the public to identify a man in a photograph and directed tips to a deputy by email. In July 2025, the office asked the public for photos and videos tied to the Traverse City Walmart stabbing, showing how quickly images and witness information can become central to a fast-moving investigation.

The office has also relied on public help in more serious cases. In April 2026, deputies said they had identified a suspect in a Garfield Township stabbing and were searching for 57-year-old Michelle Lee McGrath in connection with the case. Earlier in 2026, the sheriff’s office asked for help after Diana Marie Golosh was reported missing, saying she was last seen Jan. 26 in the Rennie School Road area of Blair Township and was reported missing Jan. 28. On Feb. 20, deputies said human remains were found in a wooded area in the 3000 block of Rennie School Road in connection with that investigation.

For Grand Traverse County residents, the latest identification request is another reminder that local cases often move forward when someone recognizes a face, remembers a name or picks up the phone.