A woman was found dead in an Austin parking lot Thursday, and police are asking for assistance in finding the person responsible for her death.

Just before 2 a.m., police discovered Kelly Meazell, 35, lying in a parking lot of an east Austin apartment complex along Manor Road.

Meazell was found in a pool of blood, and officers at the scene attempted life-saving measures to no avail, as reported by KVUE.

The Austin Police Department (APD) labeled the case as a homicide. They have canvassed the area for leads, but residents are reluctant to speak with police, which complicates the investigation into Meazell’s death.

“The challenging part of this investigation is that, for whatever reason, many people in that community are reluctant to provide us with information. For a variety of reasons, they’re hesitant to come forward and speak with us. That’s why we have the option for them to make an anonymous tip to us,” said Detective Jones.

Fox 7 reports that Meazell was homeless at the time of her murder, according to her family.

Meazell’s half-sister, Katherine Stephens, spoke to her just days before the incident.

“She told me that she was packing her stuff; I guess she had finally found somewhere to stay,” Stephens said. “Just two days later, to find out she had been murdered—it was just so unreal.”

Stephens urges the public to come forward to help seek justice for her half-sister.

“I know a lot of people knew her, and she had many friends in that area. I’m just begging anyone with information to come forward, even if you have to do it anonymously,” Stephens said.

Anyone with information is urged to contact the APD at 512-974-TIPS. You can remain anonymous and may receive a reward of up to $1,000 for information leading to an arrest.

[Feature Photo via Pixabay]