Traverse City, MI — Community Grieves the Heartbreaking Loss of Lawrence Boyd IV, A Dedicated Public Servant Taken Too Soon

Traverse City, MI — Community Grieves the Heartbreaking Loss of Lawrence Boyd IV, A Dedicated Public Servant Taken Too Soon

A deep sense of grief and disbelief has settled over Traverse City following the tragic and senseless death of 32-year-old Lawrence Boyd IV, a beloved Parking Services employee whose life was taken in a violent incident Sunday. Known for his friendly demeanor, strong work ethic, and devotion to helping others, Boyd’s sudden passing has left family, friends, coworkers, and community members mourning an irreplaceable life.

What began as a routine evening for Boyd ended in a shocking act of violence that has shaken the city to its core — a reminder of how quickly lives can be changed forever.

A Cherished Member of the Community

For those who worked alongside him, Lawrence wasn’t just a colleague — he was the heart of his department. His daily presence downtown brought smiles, laughter, and familiarity to many who crossed his path. He was the type of person who treated everyone with respect and kindness, no matter the situation.

Coworkers describe him as:

• A gentle soul with unwavering patience

• Someone who always offered help without being asked

• A constant source of positivity and reliability

• A friend who made even the hardest days feel lighter

He took pride in his role with the city’s Parking Services team, ensuring the system ran smoothly while building friendly connections with locals and visitors alike.

A Life of Dedication and Love

Outside of work, Boyd was a devoted family member and friend. Those closest to him speak of his loyalty, his humor, and the way he always put loved ones first. He enjoyed the simple joys of life — gatherings with friends, laughter-filled evenings, and time shared with the people he cared most about.

His loss leaves a void that feels impossible to fill.

Suspects Identified and in Custody

As the investigation continues, authorities have confirmed that two suspects have been arrested in connection with the incidents that led to Boyd’s death.

The primary suspect:

• Eugene Dale Thompson, 17

  • Charged as an adult

  • Believed to be the individual who fired the fatal shot

Detectives are working to uncover the full circumstances surrounding the shooting, seeking accountability and justice for Boyd and his grieving family.

An Entire City in Mourning

The shock of this tragedy has deeply impacted Traverse City residents, many of whom are expressing their sorrow through tributes, messages, and vigils. City leaders and local organizations have shared statements honoring Boyd’s service and emphasizing the importance of supporting one another during such a painful time.

This loss hits especially hard because Boyd represented the very best of community service — someone who showed up every day with purpose and pride, ready to help others.

Honoring Lawrence’s Legacy

Although his life was cut short far too soon, the legacy of Lawrence Boyd IV will remain strong. His kindness, his dedication to his work, and the genuine care he had for others will continue to live on in the hearts of those who knew him.

In the days and weeks ahead, many will come together to:

• Support his family as they navigate unimaginable grief

• Celebrate his life and the memories he gifted to the world

• Advocate for a safer community to prevent future tragedies

Gone Too Soon, Never Forgotten

Lawrence’s absence will be profoundly felt — in the hallways of his workplace, on the streets he once walked with pride, and in the lives of all who were lucky enough to know him.

Rest in peace, Lawrence Boyd IV.
Your light, your service, and your spirit touched countless lives — and they will continue to shine on in your memory.