On January 24, 2002, a partially decomposed body was found by construction workers in a vacant home in the 1400 Block of West 3rd Street. Investigators determined that the deceased individual was a Black woman believed to be between 20 and 40 years of age at the time. It is estimated that she was about 5’3” tall. While it has not been determined when or how the woman died, police and investigators with the Delaware Division of Forensic Sciences did not locate any evidence or signs indicating foul play.

At the time the woman was found, she was wearing a gray long-sleeve Ralph Lauren shirt with a “POLO” Jeans logo on the left sleeve, as well as a pair of black “Results” brand denim jeans and size 4 Timberland boots.

A forensic dentist and local artist assisted with the creation of a composite photo. This investigation remains ongoing, and investigators are asking the public for assistance.

The Wilmington Police Department’s Cold Case Unit is part of the department’s Criminal Investigations Division and includes cold case investigators. The Unit typically handles cases that have remained unsolved after a year, and after all investigative leads have been exhausted by the primary investigator. Members of the Cold Case Unit work tirelessly to pursue new leads in these cases, and to deliver justice on behalf of those who have been affected by crime.

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If you have any information about this cold case, please contact the Wilmington Police Department’s Cold Case Unit at (302) 576-3937 or contact Investigator Steven Rizzo, who can be reached at Steven.Rizzo@CJ.State.de.us.

You can also provide information to Delaware Crime Stoppers at ‪1-800-TIP-3333 or ‪delawarecrimestoppers.org. Delaware Crime Stoppers program is a non-profit organization led by dedicated citizens against crime. No police will come to your home – it’s completely anonymous and best of all, Delaware Crime Stoppers pays cash rewards if your tip leads to an arrest.

Any information could potentially be used to bring criminals to justice and provide peace for the families who have lost their loved one.