WEST HAVEN, CT – Police in this quiet Connecticut town made a shocking discovery when they found the dismembered remains of a 70-year-old woman stored in over a dozen trash bags within her own home. The victim, Tina Lloyd, was found following a welfare check that turned into an investigation of attempted arson.

Theodore Lloyd, 27, has been arrested in connection with the death of his mother. He faces charges of attempted arson and trespassing, with additional charges expected in what police have described as a gruesome crime. Authorities believe he acted alone in the horrific death of Tina Lloyd.

The investigation began after Tina’s older son expressed concerns over her whereabouts to the police on March 24. Officers visiting the Nashawen Avenue address were met with a putrid odor emanating from the property. Inside, they stumbled upon the ghastly scene of dismembered human remains stashed in plastic bags inside a closet. Signs of an attempted fire were also evident at the site.

“This case involved extensive examination,” said West Haven police Chief Joe Perno. The decomposition of the body initially hindered identification efforts, but DNA testing ultimately confirmed the victim’s identity.

Detectives meticulously sifted through countless clues, eventually identifying Theodore Lloyd as a suspect through surveillance footage. The images showed him purchasing items such as an electric chainsaw from local retailers, which were allegedly used in the crime. All items of interest were collected by the department’s identification team.

Further evidence at the scene included fire-starting materials like lighter fluid and paper, suggesting arson was part of the plan, according to investigators.

Lloyd, who had moved out of his mother’s residence in 2018 following a domestic disturbance, was reportedly homeless when the crime occurred. He was apprehended on April 14 in Hartford and is currently detained in West Haven on a $1 million bond.

Neighborhood residents expressed their sorrow at the loss of Tina, who, despite her age, was known for her independence and friendly demeanor. “She was a kind woman,” recollected local resident Denny Steeves, noting her regular walks along the street. The revelation of her fate has left a shadow over the community.

While the investigation is ongoing, authorities have not indicated a motive for the crime. However, the shock and sadness felt throughout West Haven speak volumes about the impact of this tragic event.