Middlesex District Attorney Marian Ryan and Medford Chief of Police Jack Buckley have confirmed an ongoing investigation into the death of Barbara Novaes, 61 of Medford who was located in an enclosed area outside her home on Emery Street Monday morning.

At approximately 6:44 a.m. this morning Ms. Novaes’ son called Medford Police to report her missing. He reported that his mother had last been seen yesterday afternoon at her home in Medford and that he believed she had gone to get her nails done. He also reported that the door of the home was open, and that he had located her keys, phone and purse and that her car was in the driveway.

Following the report Medford Police immediately began investigating the whereabouts of Ms. Novaes including visiting her home. At approximately 8:30 a.m. a Medford Police Officer located the body of Ms. Novaes under the porch behind the duplex where she resides. Although there were no obvious signs of trauma, based on the circumstances and the location of the body this is being investigated as a suspicious death.

This is a very active and ongoing investigation and police are asking anyone who saw something unusual in the area of Emery Street last night or today to contact police. Investigators are also seeking any video from the area. Members of the public with any information should call Medford Police at 781-395-1212.

Residents of the area can expect an increased police presence during the investigation.