Staunton homicide victim identified

STAUNTON -- Officials released more information about the death investigation of a female found deceased in a Staunton trailer on Sunday.

Pathologist Dr. Roland Khor conducted an preliminary autopsy at Terre Haute Regional Hospital Monday, which indicated foul play was involved and listed the cause of death as homicide.

According to a press release issued by Indiana State Police Monday evening, further autopsy information will not be released due to the investigation.

After positive identification and family notification, the name of the victim was released. Virginia Marie Myrtle, 52, also known as "Dee," resided at 208 W. Columbus St. in Staunton.

Authorities arrived at Myrtle's residence shortly before 3 p.m. after receiving a 911 call about a deceased person in the home.

Vehicles on the property were encased in crime scene tape by authorities, who executed a search warrant and processed items inside the trailer. Assisting Indiana State Police and the Clay County Sheriff's Office were the Clay County Prosecutor's Office and Clay County Coroner's Office.

A joint investigation is ongoing by investigators from CCSO and ISP. When additional information is deemed appropriate to release to the public, it will be done so in a timely manner.

If anyone has information they believe is beneficial to this case, no matter how insignificant they think it might be, they are urged to contact the Clay County Sheriff's Office at 812-446-2535 or the Indiana State Police Putnamville Post at 765-653-4114.