Body Found in Worcester Identified as Missing Woman
WORCESTER, MA — The Worcester Police Department confirmed today that a body discovered in wooded areas near Fairlawn Rehabilitation Hospital is believed to be that of Karen Solomon, the missing wife of a deceased police officer. The identification is preliminary and remains under investigation.
Circumstances Surrounding the Discovery
Authorities received a call around 12:40 PM on Monday from two employees at the hospital who reported finding a deceased individual in the woods adjacent to the facility. Upon further examination, officials stated they suspect the remains belong to Solomon, 58, who had been missing since the death of her husband, Kurt Solomon, a veteran officer with the Worcester Police Department, on August 18.
The Worcester Police had been actively searching for Karen Solomon since her husband was found dead in their Wildwood Avenue home. Officers made the grim discovery early on August 18, responding to a report of a person down shortly after 5 AM. The cause and manner of Kurt Solomon’s death have not yet been disclosed, generating significant public interest and concern.
Search Efforts and Public Warnings
In the days following Kurt Solomon’s death, the police extended their focus to the Coes Pond area while looking for Karen Solomon. As the search intensified, surveillance footage and images of her were released. Authorities warned the public that she could be armed and considered dangerous. Prior to her disappearance, Karen was reportedly last seen wearing pajama shorts and a tank top and was last spotted walking toward Westcott Street.
The Worcester Police Department has refrained from disclosing specific details surrounding the investigation into Kurt Solomon’s death, citing the sensitive nature of domestic violence-related inquiries. Nonetheless, they have classified Karen Solomon as a person of interest due to the circumstances of her husband’s death.
Community Reactions and Statements
Kurt Solomon was a deeply respected member of the Worcester Police force, recognized for his 31 years of dedicated service. The New England Police Benevolent Association released a statement commemorating his contributions to the department and the community. “Thirty-one years of service represents an extraordinary commitment to a community and to the profession of law enforcement,” the association remarked.
“Officer Kurt Solomon was an incredibly dependable officer, colleague, and friend. His service, friendship, and dedication will not be forgotten,” they added.
The tragic series of events has shocked the local community, prompting not only an outpouring of grief but also calls for support for domestic violence victims. Public records indicate that Kurt and Karen Solomon co-owned their residence, where officers found Kurt Solomon.
As the investigation progresses, police have urged anyone with additional information to come forward, emphasizing that their efforts are ongoing and that they seek to uncover the truth surrounding these pressing events.
The community remains vigilant as authorities work to untangle the circumstances surrounding the deaths of both Kurt and Karen Solomon, and further updates are anticipated in the coming days.
Source reference: Full report