Prosecutor: Montclair Woman's Death Probed As Homicide

MONTCLAIR, N.J. (AP) -- Authorities say the death of a woman whose body was found inside her northern New Jersey apartment appears to be a homicide.

Acting Essex County Prosecutor Carolyn Murray confirmed that 31-year-old Shazina Chan was found dead Monday morning at her Montclair residence. But Murray wouldn't provide further details on the matter, citing an ongoing investigation.

Montclair Police Chief David Sabagh said Chan's death was considered "suspicious,'' adding that she appears to have been the victim of sustained trauma. But he would not disclose further details on her injuries.

Murray said an autopsy was planned, but it was not known when the results would be released.

Neighbors declined comment on the incident, but some said several police officers had been in and out of the building during the morning hours.    

(Copyright 2011 by The Associated Press.  All Rights Reserved.)