Kelley LaLonde, a 44-year-old mother of three from Shelby Township, Michigan, has died months after enduring a brutal and terrifying ordeal that left her in a coma. Her death, announced this week by heartbroken family members, comes after authorities say she was tortured over several days by her then-boyfriend, 42-year-old Jonathan Zieroff.
Kelley had been on life support since late January. She never regained consciousness after what police described as days of sustained violence inside a mobile home in Washington Township. Her passing has not only devastated her loved ones but has reignited conversations about domestic violence and how often it goes unnoticed—until it’s too late.
The Alleged Abuse
According to court records, Kelley was subjected to horrific abuse between January 22 and 24. Macomb County Sheriff’s deputies say she was beaten, restrained, and tortured over several days. When emergency services finally arrived, they found Kelley unresponsive, suffering from head trauma, fractured bones, and signs of strangulation.
Doctors placed her on life support, but her injuries were too severe. She remained in a coma for nearly four months, during which her family held onto hope that she might recover. That hope faded earlier this month when she passed away due to her injuries.
Who Was Kelley LaLonde?
Friends describe Kelley as a loving, hardworking single mother who lived for her kids. She had just started a new job and was trying to build a better life. “She was one of the kindest souls,” said a longtime friend. “She didn’t deserve any of this. Her kids didn’t deserve to lose their mom like this.”
Kelley leaves behind three children, ages ranging from pre-teen to late teens. Family members say she was fiercely protective of them and often put their needs before her own. Now, they’re left grappling with her loss and the trauma of how she died.
The Man Accused
Jonathan Zieroff, who had been dating Kelley for a few months, was arrested shortly after the incident. He is currently facing charges of torture and unlawful imprisonment. With Kelley’s death, prosecutors are expected to upgrade the charges—possibly to second-degree murder or felony murder.
Authorities say Zieroff has a history of violence. Court documents reveal a troubling past, including previous domestic violence complaints. He is being held without bond.
A Wake-Up Call for the Community
The case has shaken the community, with many now asking how this could have happened without anyone stepping in sooner. Candlelight vigils have been held in Kelley’s memory, and online fundraisers are helping provide for her children and cover funeral expenses.
Domestic violence advocates say Kelley’s story is sadly not unique. “This is exactly why we need to take all signs of abuse seriously,” said Angela Jones, a crisis counselor at a local women’s shelter. “Too many victims suffer in silence until it’s too late.”
What Happens Next
An autopsy will be conducted to determine Kelley’s official cause of death. That report will be a key factor in whether new charges are filed against Zieroff.
Meanwhile, her family is focused on grieving—and healing. “We want justice,” said Kelley’s sister, “but more than that, we want people to remember who Kelley was. She was more than what happened to her.”
Her children are now being cared for by relatives. Counselors and support workers are assisting them through the transition.
