3 deaths in Marion County linked to extreme cold, heavy snow

INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) — Three deaths happened during the recent cold temperatures in Marion County, the coroner’s office said in a news release issued Tuesday afternoon.

On Saturday, 61-year-old William Johns Jr. was transported to the emergency room after being found in his home, which reportedly had no functioning heat.

On Saturday, 69-year-old Ellen Siakotos was found dead inside her home suffering from possible hypothermia. Authorities say the presence and status of a heat source remain unknown.

On Monday, 59-year-old Violet Wells was found outside her home in the snow, right next to a snow shovel.

Temperatures hovered in the teens for most of Saturday with subzero wind chills. Indianapolis was under a cold weather advisory. Indianapolis International Airport received 11.1 inches of snow on Saturday and Sunday.

The coroner’s office says the causes and manner of the deaths were pending as full forensic evaluations were underway.

No other information has been provided about the three incidents.

The Marion County Coroner’s Office urges residents to take precautions during periods of extreme cold, including:

• Ensuring access to a safe and reliable heat source.
• Checking on elderly neighbors, family members, and individuals living alone.
• Seeking warming centers or emergency assistance when heat i...