Related videos:
A woman was found dead inside a freezer at a Dollar Tree store in southwest Miami. The discovery was made on the morning of this Sunday by an employee of the establishment, located at 9th Avenue and 8th Street.
The victim was identified as Helen Massiell Garay Sánchez, 32 years old.
According to the Miami Police -quoted by the local press- Helen entered the store alone the night before.
The security cameras captured how he walked toward the freezer located in the storage area.
He made no purchases, and shortly after, the store closed its doors.
His body was found hours later by a worker at the start of the morning shift on Sunday.
The store was temporarily closed while agents gathered evidence and reviewed the surveillance videos.
The discovery caused shock. Some family members arrived at the scene visibly affected, although they chose not to make any statements to the press.
A doctor and mother of two children
The news had an even greater impact when the identity of the deceased was revealed.
Helen Garay was an anesthesiologist, specialized in congenital heart diseases, and originally from Nicaragua. She lived in the United States and had two young children who remained in her homeland.
“In memory of Dr. Helen Garay, a dedicated physician and beloved mother, who tragically passed away on 12/14/2025 at the age of 32”, indicates a plea for help initiated by her family on the fundraising platform GoFundMe.
The description on the page emphasizes that Helen was not only recognized for her medical work but also for her dedication to her family and her warm humanity.
"Beyond her profession, she was a loving mother of two children, who remain in Nicaragua and were the center of her world," describes GoFundMe.
Research lines: Accident, mental health, or something more?
So far, the police have not provided any further details about what happened.
It is being investigated whether the woman could have voluntarily entered the freezer or if she was suffering from some sort of mental disorder.
The detectives have been in contact with the family to understand if there were any relevant background details that could help clarify the case.
No signs of violence have been reported, nor have any arrest warrants been issued.
The possibility of an accident has not been ruled out, although the case remains under active investigation.
The request to take her back home
Helen Garay's family launched the campaign on GoFundMe with the goal of repatriating her body to Nicaragua and giving her a dignified funeral.
Under the title “Help Bring Dr. Helen Garay Home to Nicaragua,” the petition seeks financial support to cover transportation and funeral service expenses.
"The family's greatest wish is to take her back to Nicaragua so that she can receive an appropriate funeral and final rest, surrounded by her loved ones," the text says.
"We appreciate your prayers, kindness, and support during this difficult time. Your generosity will help bring Dr. Garay home and provide comfort to her family as they navigate this unimaginable loss," adds the description of the aid campaign.
A death surrounded by mysteries
The tragic death of Helen Massiell Garay Sánchez has left a trail of sorrow and questions. A young woman, a healthcare professional, and mother of two, who died alone and under strange circumstances in a foreign country.
While the authorities attempt to clarify what happened, his family is striving to give him the farewell he deserves.
The case has sparked expressions of solidarity, but also many questions: Why did she go into the freezer? What motivations or circumstances led her there?
As of the closing of this note, the aid campaign has raised $2,622 out of a total of $3,500.
Filed under: