Elderly Woman Found Dead in Bronx Apartment Building

Police officers were called to 2455 Williamsbridge Rd. just before 10 a.m. Saturday, and found the elderly woman unconscious and unresponsive

Police are investigating the killing of an 88-year-old woman who was well known in her Bronx community, according to officials.

Police say Evelyn Shapiro was found dead on the floor of her home in the Pelham Parkway Houses at 2455 Williamsbridge Rd. just before 10 a.m. Saturday.

She was found by her daughter, who went to check on Shapiro when she didn't answer the phone.

The door was unlocked. Groceries were scattered on the floor. Police said Shapiro appeared to have suffered severe head trauma.

Her death is being investigated as a homicide. 

Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr. said in a statement Saturday, "Ms. Shapiro, who was 88 years old, was a well-known pillar of her community -- a woman who cared for the well-being of the neighborhood and had spent the better part of her life at the Pelham Parkway Houses."

Neighbors say Shapiro had lived in the building for more than 60 years.

"Sweet lady, comical, very good sense of humor," said neighbor Herma Williams, who is also the Resident Association President. "Shapiro was a character, but we all loved her, and we'll miss her dearly."

No arrests have been made.

Get the latest from NBC 4 New York anytime, anywhere. Follow us on Twitter, Facebook and Google+. Get our apps here and sign up for email newsletters here. Get breaking news delivered right to your phone -- just text NYBREAKING to 639710. For more info, text HELP. To end, text STOP. Message and data rates may apply.

Contact Us