DeLand, Florida – Authorities are investigating the deaths of a man and woman discovered inside a DeLand home after officers initially responded to a cardiac arrest call over the weekend.
Bodies of Scott and Padmini Waldron Found
According to the DeLand Police Department, officers were dispatched to a residence on Cape Cod Road on Saturday, November 2, following reports of a medical emergency. Upon arrival, they found 49-year-old Scott Waldron and 47-year-old Dr. Padmini Coopamah Waldron deceased inside the home.
Police confirmed the identities on Tuesday, adding that both individuals were found under circumstances that remain under investigation. Authorities have not released a cause of death, and no foul play has been confirmed at this stage.
Dr. Waldron’s Role at the University of Central Florida
According to the University of Central Florida (UCF) website, Dr. Padmini Coopamah Waldron served as the Director of the Office of Honors Research at the Burnett Honors College. Her professional bio noted that she held both master’s and doctoral degrees in Political Science and French, reflecting a distinguished academic background.
When reached for comment, university officials declined to provide additional details at this time, saying they were still gathering information. Staff members at the college were reportedly taking names and contact details from individuals who reached out with questions about the tragedy.
Community Shocked by Sudden Deaths
Neighbors in the quiet DeLand neighborhood expressed disbelief over the news. Many said the couple had moved to the area less than a year ago and tended to keep to themselves.
One resident recalled seeing Dr. Waldron just days earlier, smiling and handing out Halloween candy to neighborhood children — a moment that now feels deeply poignant to those who knew her in passing.
Another neighbor described the area as peaceful and family-oriented, adding that the incident has unsettled many residents who rarely see police activity on their street.
Ongoing Police Investigation
Investigators have not disclosed whether any signs of struggle or suspicious activity were found at the scene. The DeLand Police Department emphasized that the investigation remains active, and detectives are working to determine what led to the sudden deaths of the couple.
Officials said that once autopsy results are completed by the Volusia County Medical Examiner’s Office, more details will be made public. Until then, authorities are urging anyone with information related to the case to come forward.
Those with relevant information are encouraged to contact the DeLand Police Department at 386-626-7400.
Community Remembers a Dedicated Educator
Students and colleagues at UCF have begun sharing tributes online, describing Dr. Waldron as a passionate educator, mentor, and advocate for student research. Many noted that she played a pivotal role in supporting honors students pursuing independent projects.
The Burnett Honors College has not announced any memorial or campus gathering yet, but students say they hope to honor Dr. Waldron’s legacy in the coming days.
Call for Information
The DeLand Police Department continues to investigate this case with sensitivity and diligence. Authorities are asking community members to remain patient as they work through the details.
If you have any information that could assist investigators, please contact the DeLand Police Department at 386-626-7400.
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