PHILADELPHIA, PA – Authorities in Philadelphia are investigating a murder after the discovery of a woman’s body inside a garage. The investigation began following a missing persons report filed for 51-year-old Ivelisse Lugo.
Lugo was last seen on Saturday morning around 8:15 a.m. at her residence on Elsinore Street. Concerns arose when her daughter went door-to-door in the neighborhood, inquiring about her mother’s whereabouts. Subsequently, a missing person alert was issued on Sunday morning.
In their search, police said Lugo might have been with her estranged husband and shared details of his vehicle, a 2006 Chevy Express van featuring a notable cross on its rear door. Despite these details, authorities have not disclosed his identity.
The police returned to the Elsinore Street home Sunday afternoon. During their second visit, officers discovered a woman’s lifeless body at about 4:20 p.m. inside the garage, wrapped in a blanket and towel, with a stab wound to the back. On Monday, officials confirmed the deceased as Lugo.
Described by her neighbors as kind-hearted, Lugo’s death has sent shockwaves through the community. Residents are expressing sorrow and disbelief over the violent loss of someone they regarded warmly.
Philadelphia police have yet to identify any suspects or locate a weapon. They are offering a $20,000 reward in exchange for any information that leads to an arrest and conviction in this case. Investigators urge anyone with relevant information to contact the Northeast Detective Division or dial 911.
This heartbreaking incident underscores the ongoing issue of domestic violence in communities and emphasizes the need for vigilance and communication among neighbors and authorities.