Bullhead City, Ariz. – A woman believed to have been dead for several months was discovered Friday afternoon inside a Bullhead City home, where police say signs of burglary and a stolen vehicle suggest the residence was entered after her death.
Officers were called to the home after a neighbor reported finding a deceased woman on a couch inside the residence. Authorities say the condition of the body indicates the woman had been dead for an extended period of time before being discovered.
Police Respond to Disturbing Discovery
Bullhead City police responded to a report of a dead person at approximately 3 p.m. on January 16 at a home in the 1600 block of Turquoise Road.
According to police, a neighbor encountered an unknown man who casually mentioned that a woman inside the home was dead and that her vehicle had been stolen. Concerned, the neighbor entered the residence and found the woman’s body lying on a couch.
Officers arriving on scene confirmed the woman was deceased and immediately secured the area for investigation.
Body Found in Mummified State
Investigators said the body was found in a mummified condition, leading detectives to believe the woman had been deceased for several months inside the home.
“The body was in a mummified state, and detectives believe the woman had been deceased inside the home for several months,” police said.
The advanced condition of the remains indicates the death went unnoticed for an extended period of time.
Signs of Burglary and Stolen Vehicle
While a Medical Examiner did not observe immediate signs of foul play, investigators noted evidence of burglary inside the home.
Police believe the residence may have been ransacked after the woman died, and her vehicle was also reported stolen. Authorities are investigating whether the burglary and vehicle theft occurred weeks or months after her death.
At this stage, investigators have not confirmed whether the individuals involved in the burglary had any connection to the victim.
Medical Examiner Continues Investigation
Although there were no immediate indicators of violence, the Medical Examiner will conduct further testing to determine the exact cause of death.
Police currently believe the woman may have died from natural causes, but officials stress that the investigation remains ongoing until forensic examinations are complete.
Victim’s Identity Not Yet Confirmed
The woman’s identity has not been released, as authorities are still working to positively identify her. Police say her name will be withheld until next of kin are notified.
Detectives are also attempting to determine how long the woman lived at the residence and when she was last seen by family, friends, or neighbors.
Investigation Ongoing
Bullhead City police continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the woman’s death, the burglary of the home, and the theft of her vehicle. Anyone with information related to the case is encouraged to contact authorities.
