As the internet speculates about a possible serial killer in New England, the New Haven Police Department (NHPD) has addressed concerns by stating that police have no reason to suspect criminality in the disappearance and death of 59-year-old Denise Leary.
Police posted that statement on social media platform X in a Friday press release, which can be read in full below.
Addressing rumors regarding Denise Leary
We are aware of speculation on social media of a serial killer who is alleged to have murdered Denise Leary. Ms. Leary was reported as a missing person on 9/30/2024 and her remains were found a short distance from her residence on 3/20/2025. The cause of her death has been ruled undetermined by the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner, however there were no signs of foul play found during her autopsy.
Our investigation began the day she was reported missing and was multi-faceted, including: interviews with family and friends; a check of hospitals, shelters, and hotels; a dozen canvasses of the area on foot by detectives, search and rescue K9 teams, and drones; cell phone data extraction; a check of financial and travel records; handwriting and DNA analysis; press releases and nationwide dissemination of her status, along with follow- up in other jurisdictions where she was known to have lived.
Our investigation has not yet concluded, but at this time there is no indication of any criminality in the disappearance and subsequent location of Ms. Leary. Should new evidence be found, and we encourage anyone with information who has not yet come forward to do so, we will update our investigation accordingly. Finally, we would like to extend our condolences to her family and friends and we ask that their privacy be respected as they grieve her loss.