Man's Body Found On Gull Island Ahead Of Jobbie Nooner

GULL ISLAND (WWJ) - The lifeless body of a 28-year-old man was found on an island in Lake St. Clair ahead of Friday's annual Jobbie Nooner bash.

Reports say the man was camping out on the island with friends, getting ready for the big party. When friends went to wake the man up around 4:30 a.m. Friday, he was unresponsive, according to Clay Township Supervisor Artie Bryson.

"Our police department and the St. Clair County Medical Examiner officer responded and are conducting an investigation at this time, and that's all the details that we have right now," he said.

Police believe alcohol played a factor in the man's death, but have revealed few other details. Foul play is not expected, although police say an investigation is ongoing.

The man's identity was not released. Officials say an autopsy will be performed to determine an exact cause of death.

The grim discovery hasn't put a damper on the celebration, which is now in full swing.

Thousands of people go to Gull Island every year for Jobbie Nooner, which has developed a notorious reputation in recent years as a free-for-all featuring nudity and excessive drinking.

Jobbie Nooner started in the 80′s by some of Detroit's auto industry employees looking for a summer getaway. The workers would typically go out on the Friday following the summer solstice. It's popularity has grown ever since and now, thousands flock to the island to partake in what is often referred to as the "Mardi Gras of the Midwest."

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