DETROIT – An autopsy has revealed that a Detroit firefighter whose body was found in his home Monday died from blunt force trauma to the head, according to the Wayne County Medical Examiner's Office.
David Madrigal's body was found when his son went to check on him at his home on Vaughn Street, which is on the city's west side. His death has been ruled a homicide.
Police and fire department officials said the 59-year-old has been a firefighter for 24 years.
Madrigal was known as “Super Dave” by his colleagues at Engine 33. They also said he had a larger than life presence.
“Dave was exceptional. In every situation, he stepped above and beyond to try to be there for someone else. That’s what we remember,” said Lt. James Edwards.
Police said Madrigal's Ford Explorer was missing from the home, but was later found.
Local 4 has also learned that an upstairs bedroom was ransacked and a safe is missing.
Police have not released a description of anyone they might be looking for in connection to the death.
Sources told Local 4 that police have learned two people had keys to Madrigal’s home – a family member and a friend/neighbor. The sources said the family member has been interviewed by police, but they are still looking for the friend.
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Anyone with information about the case can anonymously report tips to CrimeStoppers at 1-800-SPEAK-UP.