January 31, 2016
Murphy Police open investigations into pair of deaths
MURPHY (January 31, 2016) The deaths of two young women who were acquaintances and students at Plano East Senior High School are being investigated by the Murphy Police Department, in conjunction with other area law enforcement agencies, as suicides, says Murphy Police Chief Arthur Cotten.
Both deaths occurred within hours of each other under circumstances that have led investigators to presume they were both self-inflicted. No motives have been identified, and no evidence of foul play has so far been detected.
The Chief believes there is no continuing threat to area residents.
The body of Murphy resident Ritu Sachdeva, 17, was found in her home by relatives who called emergency services. Within several hours, the remains of Hillary Kate Kuizon, 17, were found by Murphy officers in a wooded area just south of Kimbrough Stadium.
It is not known if the two incidents are related or if there is any reason to believe so. Investigators are continuing to speak with relatives of the two victims to ascertain any relationship between the two deaths.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with the two families,” said the Chief. “We are treating these two cases with the care and compassion they deserve, and will continue to seek answers for the families.”
Officers from the Richardson Police Department assisted in the search and are cooperating in the subsequent investigations. The Plano Independent School District has also been actively involved in assisting with the investigations, and has provided grief support to the victims’ classmates.
Further information on cause of death is pending final medical examiner reports.
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