by Miami, Florida — Authorities are investigating a disturbing and unusual death after a young physician was found unresponsive inside a Dollar Tree store freezer, nearly a day after she was last seen entering the location, leaving family members and the community searching for answers.
Miami Police confirmed that the body of 32-year-old Massiell Garay Sanchez, a Florida-based doctor and mother of two, was discovered around 8 a.m. Sunday inside a freezer at a Dollar Tree store in Miami. The discovery was made by a store employee during opening procedures, according to local reports.
Timeline Leading Up to the Discovery
Investigators say Garay Sanchez entered the Dollar Tree store late Saturday night. Surveillance footage reportedly shows she did not make any purchases before moving deeper into the store.
Police stated that she somehow accessed a restricted employees-only area, where a large freezer was located. Authorities believe she remained inside the freezer overnight, though it remains unclear how or why she entered the space.
Her body was found unresponsive the following morning. Emergency responders were called, but she was pronounced dead at the scene.
Police Say No Foul Play Detected
Miami Police have confirmed that no signs of forced entry or violence were found, and investigators currently believe Garay Sanchez was not forced into the freezer. Authorities also emphasized that she was not an employee of the store.
At this stage, her death is being classified as unclassified, meaning officials have not yet determined whether it was accidental, medical, or related to other circumstances.
“It’s something painful — a family heartbroken now because of the death of a person, and we don’t know what truly happened,” customer Gerardo Nunez told reporters at the scene.
The Dollar Tree location remained closed until approximately 1 p.m. Sunday while police conducted their investigation.
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Family Remembers a Devoted Physician and Mother
Garay Sanchez’s family has described her as a dedicated doctor and loving mother, emphasizing her compassion and commitment to helping others.
According to a GoFundMe page organized by relatives, Garay Sanchez was originally from Nicaragua and had built a respected medical career after moving abroad. She was recognized as an anesthesiologist specializing in congenital heart disease, working with children and families facing life-threatening conditions.
“Her compassion, skill, and commitment to saving young lives defined both her career and her character,” the family wrote.
Beyond her professional achievements, relatives said her greatest pride was her family. She was the mother of two young children, who currently live in Nicaragua.
“They were the center of her world,” the family shared. “Her strength, warmth, and unwavering love for her family will always be remembered.”
Efforts to Bring Her Home
The GoFundMe campaign was created to help cover the costs of returning her body to Nicaragua for burial. As of Monday morning, the fundraiser had collected more than $2,600, reflecting widespread sympathy for the grieving family.
Community members and medical colleagues have also expressed shock over the circumstances surrounding her death, with many calling it both tragic and deeply puzzling.
Ongoing Investigation and Open Questions
While police have ruled out foul play, investigators are continuing to examine all contributing factors, including whether Garay Sanchez may have been experiencing medical, emotional, or mental health challenges, according to Local 10 News.
Authorities confirmed they are in contact with her family as the investigation continues. An official cause of death has not yet been released, and no timeline has been given for when additional information may become public.
The unusual nature of the incident — particularly how a non-employee gained access to a restricted area and remained undiscovered for hours — has raised questions that remain unanswered.
What do you think may have led to this tragic and mysterious death? Share your thoughts and reactions in the comments below.
