Staten Island, New York, found itself embroiled in a murder investigation when the body of a 43-year-old woman, identified as Dora Howell from the Bronx, was discovered buried in the basement of a residence in New Brighton nearly a year ago.
The mysterious case unfolded on April 3, 2023, when the authorities were alerted to potential human remains at 77 York Ave. near Fillmore Street following a report made from Manhattan. Upon obtaining a search warrant, the K-9 unit successfully located the body beneath the basement in a subfloor filled with dirt, indicating a criminal act had taken place.
Sources revealed that the victim may have been concealed in the basement since December 2022, having suffered a gunshot wound before being buried by one or more unknown individuals. The gruesome discovery stirred shock and disturbance among neighbors, with one recalling the chaotic scene as law enforcement vehicles descended on the area on the morning of April 2.
The investigation into Howell’s death continues, with the NYPD remaining tight-lipped about any recent developments in the case. Additionally, the Staten Island district attorney’s office declined to provide any comments regarding the ongoing inquiry, leaving the community anxiously awaiting answers in the unresolved homicide.
Individuals with relevant information pertaining to the case are encouraged to contact the NYPD’s Crime Stoppers Hotline at 1-800-577-TIPS (8477) or 1-888-57-PISTA (74782) for Spanish speakers. The public can also submit tips anonymously online through the CrimeStoppers website or via Twitter @NYPDTips, ensuring confidentiality in all interactions.