LANSING, N.Y. (WHCU) – Authorities in Tompkins County are investigating the death of a 71-year-old man.

The Tompkins County Sheriff’s Office responded to a residence in the Town of Lansing on March 5, 2023, for a reported cardiac arrest. Deputies located Joseph West, of Ithaca, deceased inside when they arrived. The death was reported as an unattended one, meaning West was found deceased and there were no witnesses to the death.

Authorities are now investigating it as a suspicious death after further investigation and review of available evidence. The Tompkins County Sheriff’s Office has been assisted by the NYSP, Ithaca Police Department, Tompkins County District Attorney’s Office, and the Tompkins County Medical Examiner’s Office.

Officials say further details will be released when available and appropriate.