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By
- Jeanette DeForge | jdeforge@repub.com
SPRINGFIELD – The discovery of a second body of a woman in an isolated area in the city has sparked online rumors. Hampden District Attorney Anthony Gulluni released a statement Thursday saying the crimes are not believed to be connected.
“The Hampden District Attorney’s Office recognizes the concern these events have caused and wants to assure the public that our commitment to justice, safety and transparency remains steadfast,” Gulluni said.
On Tuesday, the body of a woman was found in a grassy area near the Connecticut Riverwalk and Bikeway in the area of 1150 West Columbus Ave. The discovery sent a panic through the city.
Sources say her death was a homicide, but Gulluni has released few details about the 8 a.m. discovery. Police have only said it is being investigated by the Springfield Police Homicide Unit as an unattended death.
“We understand the unease that comes with such acts of violence, and we want the community to know that each of these cases is being thoroughly investigated in close coordination with our law enforcement partners,” Gulluni said in the statement. “Our hearts go out to the families who are grieving.”
Speculation about a possible serial killer may have been sparked by the Jan. 7 discovery of the body of JoAnn M. Garelli, 56, of West Springfield, in the woods of Forest Park near Camp Angelina.
Law enforcement later revealed she suffered a neck wound and her death was a homicide. The crime remains under investigation and no arrests have been made.
“At this time, there is no indication that these incidents are connected to each other or are ... part of a larger public safety threat,” Gulluni said. “We are actively working every lead and deploying every available resource.”
Still, Gulluni urged people to avoid speculating on social media about the crimes.
“While online conversations around these incidents continue to grow, we urge the public to be mindful of the role that social media can play in spreading fear or misinformation,” he said. “Unverified claims can compromise active investigations and contribute to a sense of chaos that does not reflect the full picture.”
The District Attorney’s Office says it remains in contact with police departments, city officials and community leaders to address concerns and bolster public confidence.
Anyone with information relevant to the deaths is asked to contact the Springfield Police Department Detective Bureau at 413-787-6355 or send information by texting CRIMES (2-7-4-6-3-7). In the message, type SOLVE and then include new information.
Tuesday’s death continues to be investigated by the Springfield Police Homicide Unit under the direction of Capt. Trent Duda and the District Attorney’s Murder Unit.
If confirmed, this would be the seventh homicide in 2025 in Springfield.
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