BROWNSTOWN TWP. (WWJ) -- An investigation is underway in a Downriver community after an elderly woman was found dead outside in the cold.
According to the Brownstown Police Department, the 88-year-old woman was discovered by a passerby at around 8:15 a.m. Sunday, near a business not far from the Forest View Assisted Living Facility on Allen Road.
Police said the woman, identified as a resident of that facility, was determined to be dead on the scene.
At this time, there doesn't seem to be any signs of foul play.
Based on the findings of a preliminary investigation, police said it's believed that the woman been there for a significant amount of time, and was not dressed for the cold conditions.
The body was turned over to the Wayne County Medical Examiner for an autopsy.
It's not yet clear why the woman was by herself outside, or how it's possible she was able to wander away from the facility/
Brownstown Police said, in a news release Monday that detectives have processed the scene and are still gathering the facts of the case.
Police added: "Please remember that the investigation is in its early stages, and the information in this statement could change based on additional evidence. As the investigation continues, we ask the community to join us in keeping the individual's family in your thoughts. This is truly a tragic event."
The woman's name was not released.