A grim discovery at a Taylor motel has shaken the downriver community, after a woman was found dead in a room where police say a man stayed for days alongside her body.
Authorities have identified the victim as Rebecca Patnaude. Investigators say they are looking at Christopher Schoonmaker in connection with what they found inside the room yesterday.
What Police Found
Officers who went into the room described it as cluttered and filled with trash, with two dogs inside. Patnaude’s body was found on the bed, according to FOX 2 Detroit.
Investigators told the station they believe Schoonmaker stayed in the room for several days after Patnaude died. Police are still processing the scene and have not released the cause or manner of death.
How Deaths Are Handled in Wayne County
If the case falls under medical examiner jurisdiction, the Wayne County Medical Examiner’s Office generally investigates sudden or suspicious deaths and performs autopsies to determine cause and manner of death, according to information on the office’s website. The office notes that it conducts full autopsies in about 70% of accepted cases and operates around the clock to respond to reported deaths.
Autopsy and toxicology results can take anywhere from several days to weeks. Officials often wait for those findings before releasing more detailed information about a case.
Pets, Public Safety and Unanswered Questions
FOX 2 Detroit reported that two dogs were also in the room, although the station did not indicate whether animal control was contacted or what ultimately happened to the animals.
Investigators have not announced any charges, and the investigation remains active as authorities collect evidence and speak with potential witnesses.
How To Help
Anyone with information is asked to call the Taylor Police Department’s non-emergency line at (734) 287-6611, according to the City of Taylor Police. Investigators say they plan to release additional details as they become available.
