New England’s coastal communities are alarmed by reports of six women found dead since March 2025. Remains were found on the beaches, and others in remote or secluded areas.
Internet rumors say a serial killer could be on the loose, or there may even be cult involvement. Police have urged the public not to jump to conclusions amid the ongoing investigation.
The Tragic Discoveries
Among the victims identified so far is Michele Romano, age 56, discovered in Foster, Rhode Island. She was reported missing earlier this year. Paige Fannon, 35, from Norwalk, Connecticut, whose body was recovered in March. Meanwhile, Denise Leary, 59, of New Haven, Connecticut, who had been reported missing in September last year, was found dead in a wooded area in New Haven, NBC Connecticut reported.
Additionally, unidentified remains were discovered in Groton, Connecticut, in a suitcase near a cemetery, in Killingly, Connecticut, and in Plymouth, Massachusetts. Another body, identified as Maureen Pasucci, 64, was found dead on Salisbury Beach, Massachusetts, on April 5. Police are still investigating the cause of her death.
While some of these deaths are officially labeled as “suspicious,” authorities have not yet established any definitive connection between them.
Public Theories and Viral Speculation
As news of the deaths spread, social media erupted with speculation. TikTok videos have garnered hundreds of thousands of views, with amateur sleuths attempting to link the women based on location, timing, and other circumstantial evidence.
Some users noted that the victims were found within a 100-mile coastal corridor, raising fears of a serial killer targeting women in seaside towns.
One X comment stated:
Great 🤦🏽♀️ I have a trip there in a few weeks. The paranoia is already setting in 😬”
Others drew comparisons to the infamous Gilgo Beach serial killings in Long Island, where multiple women were discovered in similar coastal conditions between 2010 and 2011. In that case, suspect Rex Heuermann, a New York architect, was arrested in 2023 and is now charged with the murders of seven women.
Police Urge Caution
But the police are pushing back against this speculation. At an April 15 news conference, Groton Police Chief Louis Fusaro appealed to the public not to “rush to judgment or spread panic,” based on incomplete information.”
“We understand the concern,” Fusaro said. “But right now, there is no conclusive evidence connecting these deaths. Each case is being investigated separately, and it’s important not to speculate before the facts are fully known.”
Similarly, Massachusetts State Police released a statement saying, “While some cases are considered suspicious, there is currently no evidence of a serial perpetrator or coordinated crimes.”
Possible Cult Involvement?
Further stirring controversy is the resurfacing of the “Zizians”, a fringe spiritual group currently under federal scrutiny. Some online theorists have connected the group’s alleged activity to the deaths, citing a bizarre open letter released by Michelle Zajko, an alleged member of the group now jailed in Pennsylvania.
The 20-page handwritten complaint by Zajko denies cult-like behavior but blames the media and FBI for pursuing a “character assassination campaign.” The authorities have not directly linked the Zizians to the recent New England deaths but confirm the group is the subject of “continuing investigation on several issues.”
“We are aware of public speculation involving certain fringe organizations,” an FBI spokesperson said. “At this time, we cannot confirm or deny involvement pending active investigation.”
Families Demand Answers Relatives of the victims are growing more frustrated with the lack of definitive answers. The families of Paige Fannon and Denise Leary echoed similar concerns, pushing for federal coordination between Connecticut, Rhode Island, and Massachusetts investigators.
Media Pressure and Next Steps
Local New England news media are investigating possible links between the cases, but most outlets are cautious about reaching conclusions. So far, the focus is on forensic analysis, witness statements, and tracking the final movements of the victims.
Despite the public outcry, law enforcement insists the cases are being taken seriously. “Every lead is being pursued,” said Rhode Island State Police spokesperson Lt. Erin Sousa. “Our primary concern is the safety of the community and justice for the victims.”
Ongoing Developments
At least two of the incidents as of mid-April are still awaiting toxicology reports, and one is being analyzed by the FBI’s Behavioral Analysis Unit. Federal coordination is still possible, however, especially if new evidence suggests a pattern.
Meanwhile, the public remains on edge. In New England’s coastal towns, joggers, beachgoers, and residents are reporting suspicious activity with greater frequency—an uptick that police say is expected, given the rising anxiety.
For now, the question remains: coincidence, cult, or coordinated crime? Authorities continue to investigate, while the public watches closely for any sign of connection or closure.
Published: Apr 17, 2025 11:56 am