Authorities in Massachusetts say the death of a New York City woman who didn't come home from an afternoon jog while visiting her mother appears to be a homicide.
The body of 27-year-old Vanessa Marcotte was found naked and burned in a wooded area in Princeton Sunday evening, according to a law enforcement source, about a half mile away from her mother's home. She was reported missing earlier in the afternoon after last being seen along Brooks Station Road.
With the homicide investigation in its early stages, Worcester District Attorney Joe Early said police cannot rule out random violence, and are asking residents to stay vigilant and to "use an abundance of caution."
An autopsy is scheduled.
Anyone with information is asked to call local or state police.
Marcotte, who worked as a Google account executive, formerly lived in Leominster and graduated from Boston University, according to the district attorney.
In a statement, Google said Marcotte was a "much loved member" and was "known for her ubiquitous smile, passion for volunteer work, and love of Boston sports."
