Additional forensic examinations were completed this afternoon on an Egg Harbor City mother of two and it was determined that the victim died as a result of a gunshot wound. Authorities continue to seek a suspect or suspects in connection with the killing, Atlantic County Prosecutor Ted Housel stated.
On Sunday at 12:14 a.m. Prosecutor’s Office Major Crimes Unit detectives responded to the Harbor City Apartments, located on Atlantic Avenue in Egg Harbor City, for a report that a resident walking to his mailbox discovered a body behind buildings J and K. Upon arrival, detectives located the victim, who was later identified as Deanna Downs, 29, a resident of an apartment in the G building.
Medical Examiner Office personnel pronounced the victim dead at the scene. While on scene and opined that the victim died as a result of a gunshot wound. After performing a preliminary autopsy yesterday afternoon, the Medical Examiner suspected penetrating blunt force trauma was the cause of death. However, a further forensic examination was conducted today, Prosecutor Housel said.
“The further forensic examination causes me to conclude that this was a shooting homicide,” Prosecutor Housel stated.
More details will follow as they become available.
