Retired detective discovered dead in Connecticut hoarding home months after going missing.

A retired detective was found deceased in her Glastonbury, Connecticut home approximately six months after she was reported missing, according to local police officials. Mary Notarangelo, a 73-year-old former officer, was last seen alive in June 2024 and was subsequently reported missing in July of that year. Her remains were uncovered during an excavation of significant debris within her home, located in a residential neighborhood characterized by clutter and neglect. The authorities reported that her skeletal remains were located beneath a pile of refuse situated just inside the front door.

Chief Marshall Porter of the Glastonbury Police Department indicated that initial attempts to search the residence had been hampered by the overwhelming conditions inside. These preliminary searches, undertaken with the assistance of a cadaver dog, a drone, and specialized personnel from the state’s environmental agency alongside a biohazard waste disposal company, yielded no results. The deteriorated state of the house rendered these efforts largely ineffective. It was only during a subsequent search in February that officers were able to locate Notarangelo.

The police investigation revealed the severe state of disarray within the home, with officers reporting “mountains” of garbage obstructing the entrance. Upon entering the premises, officers encountered more piles of debris, cobwebs, and dead animals, contributing to an extremely unpleasant odor within the home. Officer Anthony Longo noted the complete absence of clear pathways, stating that movement from one room to another was only possible by climbing over the heaps of waste.

Notarangelo was described as an active member of her community and a dedicated practitioner of Wicca, having served as a detective with the Bridgeport Police Department prior to her retirement. At the time of her disappearance, the last communication with a friend occurred around June 12, 2024, when she reportedly expressed suffering from abdominal cramps and vomiting. The manner and cause of her death remain undetermined, as confirmed by a representative from the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner.

The circumstances surrounding her passing raise questions about the conditions leading to her extended absence from the community, and the investigation continues to unfold as officials seek answers. The tragic case highlights the often-overlooked issue of mental health and hoarding behaviors, alongside the challenges faced by law enforcement in addressing such complex situations.

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