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NEED TO KNOW
- Texas authorities responded to a call made by a man who purchased a home through an auction and later detected a strong odor when he visited the residence
- Police found the body of an elderly woman, identified as Pauline Williams 69
- Authorities said she had been dead for some time
A man recently bought a home at a property auction in Texas, then was shocked when a dead body was found inside.
In a news release shared with PEOPLE, the Addison Police Department said authorities received a call on Wednesday, Oct. 29, for a welfare check at a home on the 1700 block of Planters Row. Upon arrival, officers spoke with the new homeowner, who said that when he entered the home, he noticed a strong odor and “immediately left before calling the police.”
“Officers entered the residence and discovered the body of an elderly woman who appeared to have been deceased for some time,” the Addison Police Department said.
The Dallas County Medical Examiner’s Office is working on determining the cause of the death.
Police went on to say that they are also investigating, but have “no reason to believe there is any ongoing threat to the public.”
The victim was identified as Pauline Williams, 69, a resident at the home, per ABC affiliate WFFA, citing a letter from the local homeowners association.
Gary McIntyre, a neighbor with the Homes of Addison Place, told the outlet that he regretted that he and other residents didn’t check in on Williams — noting that the homeowners association sent the woman past due notices and that the letter carrier noticed mail accumulating in her mailbox.
In a letter to homeowners that was shared with WFAA, the association wrote: “We know this news is difficult to hear, and we ask that everyone please respect the privacy of Ms. Williams’ family and the new homeowner during this time. Thank you all for your understanding and compassion toward one another as neighbors.”
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In an email to PEOPLE on Friday, Oct. 31, the Dallas County Medical Examiner’s Office wrote that they had no information to share and that it takes about 60-90 before a cause and manner of death can be determined.
PEOPLE reached out to the Homes of Addison Place for additional comment.