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An elderly woman’s body was discovered in a state of decomposition after authorities responded to a situation involving a SWAT team at a suburban home in Vernon Hills, Illinois. Police announced that no charges are expected in connection with the incident.
Mary Barry, aged 81, resided in a house located in the 500 block of Saddlebrook Lane. Concerns arose when she had not been heard from for several weeks. Barry shared her home with her 50-year-old son, who has disabilities.
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The Vernon Hills police, accompanied by a social services clinician, visited the residence for a welfare check around 10:15 a.m. on Friday. Upon arrival, they engaged briefly with Barry’s son, who then proceeded to shut the door and barricade himself inside the house.
During the visit, officers detected a strong odor indicative of decomposition, prompting them to call for additional support. A SWAT team was dispatched to manage the situation.
Once the scene was secured, authorities entered the home and discovered Mary Barry’s body on the bedroom floor. The investigation continues, but police have stated that no charges are anticipated at this time.
Officials later found Barry’s son with the help of a specialty drone. Officers detained him and took him to a local hospital for evaluation.
Police said preliminary autopsy results suggest that Barry died of natural causes. The investigation found that the last known contact with Barry happened over a month ago.
Investigators believe that Barry’s son, who is not being identified by police, did not realize that his mother had died due to a medical condition. He is receiving hospital treatment, and no criminal charges are expected.
The home has been turned over to Barry’s family.
No further information was available.
The video in the player above is from a previous report.
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