A Vermont man has been charged with murder after allegedly sexually assaulting, killing his 82-year-old neighbor and then burning and burying her remains.
82-year-old Roberta Martin had been reported missing on July 17. According to the Vermont State Police, Martin’s body was discovered on Sunday, July 21, in a wooded area near Sand Hill Road in Enosburgh, close to her home.
Police have arrested and charged 23-year-old Darren Martell, Martin’s neighbor, with aggravated murder in connection with her death.
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Investigators allege that Martell sexually assaulted Martin before killing her. Her remains were subsequently burned and buried in a wooded area. Police found signs of a break-in at Martin’s residence, and Martell was caught on camera speaking to police the day after she vanished, according to WCAX.
The gruesome discovery has shocked the quiet town of Enosburgh, leaving residents grappling with grief and disbelief. Martin was a beloved community member known for her kindness and gentle nature.
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Martell was initially arrested on unrelated charges of lewd and lascivious conduct after witnesses reported him masturbating in public. However, following the discovery of Martin’s body, police focused their investigation on him, leading to the murder charge.
The investigation is ongoing, and authorities are urging anyone with information to come forward.
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