Gay Man Found Dead After Lansing Fire

Known as an incubator for small businesses, the lesbian-owned Lansing Eastside Gateway was ravaged by a fire last weekend that resulted in the death of 43-year-old openly gay employee John Bolan. He was discovered dead inside Sunday morning. In an article by reporter Kara Berg, The Lansing State Journal reported that Bolan had been sleeping inside the building when the fire broke out.
"It is not clear why Bolan was in the building when the fire began at about 5 a.m. Firefighters were told a person who had been sleeping in the back of the building was still inside, Lansing Fire Department spokesperson Steve Mazurek said Sunday," the report said. "Due to structural issues, crews were not able to gain access, he added."
The Gateway's Facebook page shared a GoFundMe link to aid Bolan's family in providing burial services after the tragedy.
"Not only was the business a complete loss but John lost his life in the battle. John prided himself in being a human first and everything else came later he was always willing to give of his time and help those that needed it," The post read. "John was not only my brother-in-law he was one of my best friends he will be greatly missed. His brother Patrick and I, along with other members of the family, are asking for your help. We do not have the funds for this unexpected loss and any little bit would be greatly appreciated."
The Facebook page also shared pictures of the results of the blaze with a message of thanks for community members who have shown support.
"Thank you, all, for the outpouring of support after this morning's fire," The post read. "I can't say much; it's still being picked over by the fire crews, but the photos say it all."