The discovery of the remains of 73-year-old Mary Notarangelo, a retired detective, has raised serious concerns regarding her welfare amid troubling living conditions. Seven months after her reported disappearance in June 2024, her skeletal remains were uncovered within her rural Connecticut home, which had been overtaken by intense hoarding. This grim finding occurred in February 2025, when an environmental services crew was tasked with clearing substantial piles of debris that had accumulated over the years. The Glastonbury Police Department reported that Notarangelo’s last contact with anyone was a text message sent around June 12, where she mentioned suffering from abdominal cramps and vomiting, ultimately leading to her friend’s request for a welfare check about three weeks later.
Upon arriving to clear the home, workers discovered Notarangelo’s remains buried among “mountains” of trash after using machinery to dig through the debris. The authorities highlighted the challenges posed by the overwhelming amount of waste in the residence, which complicated initial search efforts. Reports indicate that conditions within her home were amongst the most severe encountered by local authorities, leading to visibility issues and obstacles that hindered the search for any sign of her. Cages filled with deceased birds, along with a live cat and mice, were also found, presenting a chaotic and disturbing environment.
Initial searches of Notarangelo’s home began shortly after her disappearance in July, but despite multiple attempts—including drone surveillance—authorities were unable to find her. Each search was marred by clutter and obstructions caused by her hoarding behavior. Local police noted the overwhelming presence of garbage that not only rendered the search physically challenging, but also delayed any further investigation due to the complex and dangerous conditions within the property. Such circumstances highlighted broader issues surrounding hoarding behavior and its potential dangers, which are often overlooked until tragic outcomes occur.
Patti Steeves, a friend of Notarangelo’s, shared her sadness and concern over the situation, describing Notarangelo as a kind-hearted individual despite her eccentricities. She recounted her attempts to address Notarangelo’s hoarding with her, but the discussions were not well-received. Steeves also noted Notarangelo’s affection for birds and other pets, revealing a picture of a woman who had a complicated relationship with her environment, indicative of deeper mental health struggles. This highlights the often-hidden challenges faced by individuals with hoarding tendencies and the importance of supportive intervention from friends and family.
Notarangelo had a notable career with the Bridgeport Police Department, rising through the ranks from officer to detective and eventually sergeant before retiring due to a disability after an on-duty accident. Her professional background adds another layer of complexity to her story, as someone who dedicated her life to public service yet found herself in a dire personal situation. The investigation regarding her death remains ongoing, with the state medical examiner unable to determine a specific cause due to the condition of her remains.
The Glastonbury Police Department, while not immediately commenting on the case, has faced scrutiny regarding the lengthy duration it took to locate Notarangelo’s remains. This distressing case has raised awareness about the social issues surrounding hoarding and its dire consequences, as well as the need for better resources and procedures for managing such situations. The tragic end to Notarangelo’s story serves as a reminder of the importance of community vigilance and support, particularly for individuals grappling with mental health challenges and isolation.
