A Worcester police veteran was found dead in a Wildwood Avenue home on Tuesday morning, prompting an urgent manhunt for a 58-year-old woman believed to be armed and dangerous.
Police identified the officer as Kurt Solomon, 57, a 31-year veteran of the Worcester Police Department. Solomon leaves behind two sons, according to Thomas Duffy, president of the Worcester Police Union. Authorities launched the search for Karen Solomon after the officer’s death, which they described as stemming from a domestic incident at her residence around 5:30 a.m. Tuesday.
Worcester police confirmed they are seeking Karen Solomon in connection with the death of a man at her home. Officials have not disclosed how the officer died or identified him publicly beyond his name and tenure. Police described Solomon as a 58-year-old White woman with dark brown hair and brown eyes, last seen wearing pajama shorts and a tank top walking toward Westcott Street.
Active Search Efforts Underway
A large police presence was reported near Solomon’s home as officers, including a Massachusetts State Police helicopter and a special emergency response team, conducted a ground search of nearby woods. The Worcester Police Department urged the public to contact authorities if they spot Solomon, providing a direct line (508-799-8606) and 911 for emergencies.
Background on Karen Solomon
Karen Solomon is the president and founder of First HELP, an organization focused on raising awareness about law enforcement suicide and supporting surviving families. According to the group’s website, she has written books and articles about the mental health challenges officers face, including titles such as Hearts Beneath the Badge and The Price They Pay.
In a 2016 interview with CBS News Boston, Solomon discussed her motivation for writing Hearts Beneath the Badge, stating that her son had come home from school asking why someone had told him that police “kill people for no reason.” She described her work as highlighting the positive contributions of law enforcement, including acts of kindness and bravery.
Solomon was married to a Worcester police officer at the time of the interview, though her current marital status has not been confirmed by authorities. Her organization’s mission centers on reducing stigma around police mental health, a topic she has addressed in public forums and written works.
Ongoing Investigation
Police have not released details about the circumstances leading to Kurt Solomon’s death or the nature of the domestic incident. The investigation remains active, with authorities requesting public assistance in locating Karen Solomon. The Worcester Police Department has not indicated whether additional charges or updates are expected in the near term.
This is a developing story. Updates will be provided as more information becomes available.