Mylah Rose Thelen, a spirited 13‑year‑old from Portland, Michigan, died by suicide on March 29, 2026, leaving her family and community devastated. Her parents, Robert and Amy Thelen, shared that she had confided in them weeks earlier about an alleged sexual assault during a spin‑the‑bottle game at a gathering in Ionia County.
She grew up as a true farm kid, spending time with animals, riding dirt bikes, fishing, and hunting. She also loved Brazilian Jiu‑Jitsu, beginning at age nine, and went on to compete successfully in wrestling seasons. Her family described her as a “wild child with a big heart,” equally comfortable covered in mud or taking time to style her hair and nails.
Mylah’s parents said she was deeply loved and carried a strong presence wherever she went. She was known for her humor, often making those around her laugh, and for her creativity in painting, sewing, knitting, and crafting. She shared a close bond with her dog, Shadow, who grew up alongside her.
Thelen family members revealed that Mylah had struggled with bullying in the past, which they tried to counter by encouraging her involvement in sports. Despite their efforts to reassure her after the February assault, they later realized she was suffering more deeply than they understood. Her father recalled that the night before her death, the family had been laughing and making plans, unaware of the darkness she was hiding.
Authorities charged 18‑year‑old Blake Kozan with first‑degree criminal sexual conduct in connection with the alleged assault. Court records show Kozan admitted to physical interaction but claimed he did not know Mylah’s age.
Prosecutors asked the judge to deny bond, citing concerns about his mental state after troubling social media posts. Magistrate Kim Clark denied bond and ordered Kozan to have no contact with the victim’s family.
She is survived by her parents, Robert and Amy; siblings Makayla, Devin, Kaylena, Caiden, and Anthony; her grandfather Donald; numerous aunts, uncles, godparents, and extended family; and her beloved dog, Shadow. She was preceded in death by her grandparents Patricia Thelen and Doug David, and her aunt Eno. Her family now hopes her story will raise awareness about bullying, mental health, and the importance of protecting children.
