MIAMI — Authorities are investigating the death of Helen Massiell Garay Sanchez, a 32-year-old woman who was found deceased inside a freezer at a Dollar Tree store in Miami’s Little Havana neighborhood.
Miami police said the discovery was made around 8 a.m. Sunday, December 14, when an employee arrived at the store located at 968 SW 8th Street and alerted emergency services. Garay Sanchez was pronounced dead at the scene.
According to investigators, the case is currently being classified as an “unclassified death” as officials await the results of the medical examiner’s report. Police said there are no confirmed signs of violence and no immediate evidence suggesting she was forced into the freezer.
Surveillance footage reviewed by authorities reportedly shows Garay Sanchez entering the store alone on Saturday night shortly before closing. Police said she did not appear to shop and was later seen walking into an employee-only area where the freezer is located.
Garay Sanchez was an anesthesiologist originally from Chinandega, Nicaragua, and was recognized for her medical work, including specialization in congenital heart conditions. She had previously worked at La Mascota Hospital in Managua, according to those familiar with her career.
Friends said she was in Miami visiting her father and was scheduled to return home on Monday, December 15. Her sudden death has left family members and the wider community in shock and mourning. Loved ones were seen at the scene following the discovery.
It was also reported that a GoFundMe campaign has been created to help support funeral arrangements and repatriation expenses as relatives cope with the unexpected loss.
Police say the investigation remains ongoing, and further details will be released once the medical examiner completes the official determination of cause and manner of death.