Crime & Safety

PD: Autopsy Today on Female Homicide Victim Found in Middletown

Investigators are still looking into the death of an unidentified woman found Saturday at Westfield Falls — her most significant feature is the rose tattoo on her shoulder with the name, "Melissa."

As the state medical examiner's office conducts an autopsy today in Farmington, investigators are still seeking to identify the woman found dead of an apparent homicide Saturday at Westfield Falls in Middletown.

According to the OCME, autopsies are performed on all homicide victims and gunshot victims.

State and local officers are hoping by releasing the photo of the heart-shaped tattoo with the name "Melissa" on her left rear shoulder, members of the public, including tattoo artists, can offer clues the woman's identity.

Find out what's happening in Middletownwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

Hikers enjoying a trail leading to a bucolic waterfall just up from a 9-hole golf course made a grisly discovery Saturday afternoon after following a substance along the ground that appeared to be blood, according to Middletown Police.

Police say the body of a woman was found face down in the water under the bridge at Westfield Falls in a remote section of town off Miner Street, just up the road from the at 1 p.m.

Find out what's happening in Middletownwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

She is described as "most likely" Hispanic, ages 18 to 30, according to police, with long brown hair, 5 foot 4 inches to 5 foot 6 inches in height and weighing 110 to 120 pounds.

Middletown Police are working with state police major crimes this evening for clues to the woman's identity and cause of death.

Just before 1 p.m., police said, hikers discovered the body, which had been dragged to the area, and alerted police.

Golf course owner Michael Streckfes was out near the entrance to the Miner Hills Cemetery Saturday, directing those stopping by to golf past the "road closed" signs at Smith Street. With the clear skies, strong sun and pleasant breeze, his course had enjoyed a huge number of golfers since the 9 a.m. opening.

Major crimes investigating a homicide just yards from the entrance of such a tranquil part of town was quite a juxtaposition.

Officials say the woman's body may have been in that spot for 24 to 48 hours and are asking anyone with information or who recognizes the description to call Middletown Police at (860) 344-3200.


Get more local news delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up for free Patch newsletters and alerts.

We’ve removed the ability to reply as we work to make improvements. Learn more here

To request removal of your name from an arrest report, submit these required items to arrestreports@patch.com.