CHIPPEWA COUNTY, Mich. (WZMQ) – As part of an ongoing investigation into a woman’s recent death in Dafter Township, a Sault Ste. Marie man has been arrested for delivery of a controlled substance causing death.
On February 20, 2026, Michigan State Police (MSP) Sault Ste. Marie Post troopers responded to a report of a female believed to be in cardiac arrest. Troopers arrived at the residence and checked the woman for signs of life. However, it was determined she had been deceased for several hours before police were called.
Drug paraphernalia and suspected narcotics, including fentanyl and methamphetamine, were found at the scene. The subsequent investigation revealed the woman had purchased drugs from a local man leading up to that night. An autopsy later determined the cause of death to be a drug overdose involving fentanyl and methamphetamine.
On April 1, MSP troopers, UPSET detectives, MSP Emergency Support Team personnel, and Sault Tribe Police Department officers executed a search warrant at the residence of 31-year-old Brandon Nertoli. The search resulted in his arrest, as well as the seizure of methamphetamine and small quantities of prescription pills. Troopers also seized $4,360 in U.S. currency, which is subject to forfeiture, and $4,440 in counterfeit bills.
“This arrest was an important step in this case,” said Lt. Ben Eckola, MSP Eighth District Public Information Officer. “Troopers are continuing their work to hold those responsible for this death accountable.”
The next day, Nertoli was arraigned on a charge of delivery of a controlled substance causing death. He was arraigned as a habitual offender, which could result in enhanced penalties if he is convicted. His bond was set at $100,000 cash/surety with additional conditions. If Nertoli posts bond, he will be subject to GPS monitoring and house arrest. His next court appearance is scheduled for April 16.
