Crime & Safety

Bathtub Death Ruled Accidental

A woman drowned Sunday in her Freedom Boulevard home.

The death of a 36-year-old woman who drowned in a bathtub last weekend was an accident, the coroner ruled.

, according to Sheriff's Office spokeswoman April Skalland.

"She had some health issues," the deputy said, explaining Pelton had a neurological disease that left her unable to control her body. She also couldn't speak.

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The Coroner's Office took several days to investigate the case, though early on officials said they didn't suspect the death was a homicide, or that drugs or alcohol were factors.

"Basically, they ruled it an accident," Skalland said. "They don't have any reason to believe it was foul play."

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Pelton had a caregiver, who found her dead in the tub. Skalland also said there is no concern about neglect in the situation.

"He's very upset about this. He's devastated," Skalland said, referring to the caregiver. "It's a pretty sad story."


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