Authorities are intensifying their search for Karen Solomon, a 58-year-old woman considered armed and dangerous, following the discovery of a veteran Massachusetts police officer found dead in his home on Tuesday.
New video footage and an updated photograph of Solomon were released by the Worcester Police Department on Wednesday as the manhunt entered its second day. Police continue to urge the public to remain vigilant.
The deceased officer, identified by the New England Police Benevolent Association as Officer Kurt Solomon, was a 31-year veteran of the Worcester Police Department. The association described him as an "incredibly dependable officer, colleague and friend" who dedicated over three decades to serving the community.
Police responded to a report of a person down at a Wildwood Avenue residence at approximately 5:28 a.m. on Tuesday, where they found the off-duty officer deceased inside. His cause and manner of death have not yet been released. Public records indicate that Kurt and Karen Solomon co-owned the home, and Kurt Solomon identified Karen as his wife in a 2016 bankruptcy filing. A Worcester city councilor also referred to Karen as Kurt's wife.
Authorities stated that Karen Solomon was believed to have been at the residence and that other individuals were also present, but they declined to provide further details, citing rules surrounding domestic violence cases. A police spokesperson confirmed Wednesday morning that Solomon is still believed to be armed.
Solomon is described as a White woman with dark brown hair and brown eyes. Initially, she was reported to have been last seen wearing pajama shorts and a tank top and walking toward Westcott Street. Police warned on Tuesday that she was presumed "armed and dangerous" and reiterated that belief in their Wednesday update.
Anyone with information regarding Karen Solomon's whereabouts is urged to contact the Worcester Police Department at 508-799-8606 or to call 911. Police have advised the public not to approach her if seen and to contact authorities immediately. The investigation remains active.