Lawrence resident died of asphyxiation

A Lawrence man found dead Thursday in his East Lawrence home fell and died from “positional asphyxiation,” police said Friday.

No foul play was suspected in the death of Edward Payne, 37, Sgt. Mike Pattrick said.

An autopsy revealed that Payne fell down some stairs and his body landed in a manner that he was unable to breathe, Pattrick said.

Sexual assault claims being checked by police

A 12-year-old girl said she was sexually assaulted by a boy of similar age, and Lawrence Police are investigating.

The Lawrence girl told police she was forced to perform sex acts with the suspect between Jan. 15 and Feb. 1.