Sara Watkins, 33, and her 7-year-old child, Kannon, were found dead and in an advanced state of decomposition in their apartment building at 545 Dumont Ave in East New York. The child, autistic and nonverbal, may, have starved to death after his mother’s death. Sara had shut the world out for years after discovering the lifeless body of the grandfather who had raised her. Since then, she had isolated herself completely, refusing all contact with family.
The bodies were identified by friends. Family members told the media that they had concerns about the Watkins’ lifestyle in recent years, as she had become particularly reclusive after the death of her grandfather, who lived in the same apartment with her and her son.
Neighbors reported to officers and the media that the woman and her son were quiet and reserved. Police were called by residents of the building because of a foul odor coming from the apartment. New York officials said there were no signs of trauma and they are waiting for the coroner’s report on autopsies to determine the cause of death for both victims. Meanwhile, the apartment is now sealed by police order pending any further developments.
