Decomposed body of woman found in Lake Como home after 2 years

Marinella Beretta, a 70-year-old woman, was discovered deceased in her home near Lake Como, Italy, two years after her death. She was last seen by neighbors in September 2019, who believed she had relocated at the onset of the Covid pandemic in early 2020. The tragic discovery occurred in February 2022 when local authorities, responding to complaints about an overgrown garden and a fallen tree, entered her property and found her remains in a chair in the living room. A medical examiner could not determine the exact cause of death but concluded that she likely passed away towards the end of 2019, with no evidence of foul play. Following the discovery, police attempted to locate any relatives but found that Marinella had no living family members. This situation prompted local officials to take action to ensure she received a proper farewell. Como's mayor, Mario Landriscina, invited community members to attend her funeral, emphasizing the importance of coming together in remembrance of Marinella. He encouraged residents to view her solitary death as a moment for reflection on the importance of community and connection. The mayor's sentiments were echoed by Italy’s minister for family and equal opportunities, who expressed sorrow over the loneliness Marinella experienced. This incident highlights the broader issue of isolation and the need for communities to support one another, especially during challenging times. The local government’s response serves as a reminder of the collective responsibility to care for those who may be forgotten or alone.