A strange odor coming from an East County home Wednesday led to the discovery of two badly decomposed bodies, now identified as a staffer for the San Diego District Attorney's office and her granddaughter.
Family and neighbors confirmed that Marshelle Newby, 56, was found dead inside a home on Avoyer Place in the Casa de Oro community near La Mesa alongside her granddaughter.
Tanya Sierra, of the DA’s office, confirmed that Newby was a Criminal Legal Secretary for the DA’s office and had worked there for 23 years.
“Our office is grieving and our hearts go out to her family and friends,” Sierra said on behalf of the office.
At around 8 a.m. Wednesday, a California Highway Patrol (CHP) officer was flagged down by a Casa de Oro resident who reported a "weird smell" coming from a home in the 4100 block of Avoyer Place. Given the location, the CHP officer called for deputies from the San Diego County Sheriff's Department (SDSO) to investigate.
SDSO Lt. John Maryon told NBC 7 two people were found dead inside the house. He said the SDSO homicide team was handling the investigation.
By 11:45 a.m., SDSO officials confirmed the bodies of two females were found on a bed inside the residence. At first, investigators said they could not determine the ages of the women due to the advanced decomposition of their bodies. Officials believe the bodies had been decomposing inside the house for at least one week.
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Investigators said there was some kind of note found inside the home, but they would not elaborate on what the note said.
The San Diego County Medical Examiner's office was called to the scene and the street was filled with law enforcement officials from multiple agencies for many hours.
Part of the home was roped off with yellow tape as officials launched their investigation. Some bystanders, possibly family members, were seen gathered in front of the home, visibly upset and shaken. Several of them were interviewed by detectives at the scene.
According to a memo sent to staffers at the DA’s office, Newby was “loved across the DA’s office” and was “known for her dedication to the needs of her granddaughter.”
The office described Newby as a friendly, welcoming person who often sparked up conversations in the elevator.
She was recently named “Support Staff Member of the Year,” an award that recognizes achievement by paralegal or support staff who has distinguished themselves through hard work and dedication.
Another source who knew Newby told NBC 7 she was “so nice and always talked to everyone.”
As of 3:30 p.m., the cause of death for both Newby and her granddaughter had not yet been determined. The SDSO said there were no signs of forced entry or a struggle at the home, and there are no outstanding suspects in the case.
The Medical Examiner will determine the cause and manner of death in this case, officials said, pending autopsies.
The investigation is ongoing.
