Missing Retired Detective Discovered Deceased Under Accumulation of Debris in Her Residence
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A heartbreaking discovery was made when the lifeless body of Mary Notarangelo, a 73-year-old retired detective, was found in her Connecticut home, over seven months after concerns were raised by a friend requesting a welfare check, as reported by sources. Her body was concealed beneath a heap of trash and debris within the property.
The former police detective’s remains were unearthed in February in Glastonbury, after a prolonged search effort that commenced in July of the previous year. Reports from CT Insider, ABC News, and CBS affiliate WFSB detailed the distressing find, following the release of a police report on the matter. Notarangelo, who retired from the Bridgeport Police Department in 1996, was discovered under piles of debris near the entryway, where a staggering six feet of trash obstructed access, according to ABC News.
Hoarding conditions within the residence had impeded previous attempts to locate her, until an excavator and work crew were enlisted to assist in the search. The house was observed to be in a state of disarray, with dead birds found in cages, alongside live mice. Due to the advanced state of decomposition, the state medical examiner’s office was unable to determine the exact cause of death.
Authorities including the Glastonbury Police Department, Bridgeport Police Department, and Connecticut Office of the Chief Medical Examiner have not yet provided comments in response to inquiries. Chief Marshall Porter of the Glastonbury Police Department expressed the situation as “tragic and…very strange,” as reported by CT Insider.
According to reports, a friend of the retired detective raised concerns for her well-being in July 2024, after receiving distressing messages from Notarangelo indicating health issues. Despite multiple efforts by officers to search the cluttered premises, their attempts were thwarted by the extreme congestion within the residence, stated CT Insider. Various resources, such as cadaver dogs and a biohazard collection team, were eventually deployed to aid in the investigation.
Upon a second visit by the collection company, Notarangelo’s remains were finally recovered, bringing closure to the prolonged search effort. Close friends and former colleagues described Notarangelo as a caring individual with a passion for her faith and profession. Patti Steeves, a close acquaintance, recounted her fond memories of the deceased, highlighting her love for animals and unwavering dedication to her beliefs.
The circumstances surrounding Mary Notarangelo’s demise have left many deeply saddened, reflecting on the profound impact she had on those around her. Her story serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of reaching out and offering support to those in need, especially during challenging times.
In challenging circumstances such as this, it is crucial to raise awareness about the significance of social connections and community support in identifying and assisting individuals who may be experiencing difficulties. The tragic fate of Mary Notarangelo underlines the importance of looking out for one another and providing help when it is needed the most. Let us honour her memory by fostering a culture of compassion and vigilance within our communities.