Former Florida school employee found dead with zip tie around her neck

SANFORD, Fla. (TCD) -- A homicide investigation is underway after police reportedly found a woman’s body with a zip tie around her neck last month.

According to a news release from the Sanford Police Department, on July 17 at approximately 2:10 p.m., an individual found Joysee Cartagena dead in her home in the 3000 block of Saltmarsh Loop and called 911. Sanford Fire and Rescue responded to the residence and attempted lifesaving measures but pronounced Cartagena deceased at the scene.

Police said Cartagena’s death is being investigated as "suspicious" and a "potential homicide."

According to WKMG-TV, investigators have identified a possible person of interest, but they have not been taken into custody.

A spokesperson for Seminole County Public Schools told WKMG that the victim worked for the school district from 2015 to 2022 and has served as a secretary for Spring Lake Elementary School, as well as a clerk for Lawton Elementary School.

Cartagena reportedly leaves behind a 22-year-old son who is set to graduate from the University of Central Florida in December.

MORE:

• Sanford Police Investigating Suspicious Death as Possible Homicide — Sanford Police Department
• Woman found dead with zip tie around neck was former Seminole County Public Schools employee — WKMG