Worcester police say body identified as Karen Solomon found near hospital and reservoir
Police identified a body discovered in a wooded area off May Street as likely belonging to Karen Solomon, wife of a slain officer, and recovered a handgun nearby.
Worcester police Chief Paul Saucier said a body found Monday afternoon in a wooded area off May Street is believed to be Karen Solomon, the wife of Patrolman Kurt Solomon, who was found dead at his home on Aug. 18. Two employees of Fairlawn Rehabilitation Hospital discovered the remains shortly before 1 p.m. and alerted authorities.
"Two people who worked at Fairlawn Rehab observed a deceased body in the woods. Upon further examination, we believe this person to be Karen Solomon," Saucier said.
Investigators also recovered a handgun near the site, which police confirmed does not belong to Kurt Solomon. The area is close to Coes Reservoir, where divers had been searching since the previous Tuesday. The search prompted the city to close nearby recreational facilities, including the Columbus Park boardwalk and playground.
The Solomon family issued a statement thanking first responders and the community for their support. Police described the case as a tragic murder-suicide, noting there was no prior history of domestic violence in the family. Saucier added that the department is providing mental-health resources to officers affected by the incident.
Kurt Solomon, a 31-year veteran of the Worcester Police Department, is survived by two adult sons. A wake will be held on Tuesday at Our Lady of the Angels Church, with a funeral scheduled for Wednesday morning.