Death of woman found near roadway in NW Harris Co. may be heat-related, sheriff says
HARRIS COUNTY, Texas (KTRK) -- Deputies are investigating after a woman was found dead on the side of a road in northwest Harris County on Monday.
Harris County Sheriff Ed Gonzalez said the woman's death may be heat-related.
A motorist called 911 just after 9 a.m. when they spotted the woman dead near the roadway at 12199 Misty Moss Lane, Gonzalez said.
While how she died is unknown, Gonzalez said it's possible extreme heat was a factor. The medical examiner's officer will determine her exact cause of death.
Investigators said it appears the woman was just passing through the neighborhood when she collapsed. They said her body had no visible trauma and they do not believe she was struck by a vehicle.
Deputies believe she's between 30 and 40 years old. They said she was wearing a backpack.
Investigators said no foul play is suspected, though the investigation is ongoing.
Deputies were canvassing the area, speaking to neighbors, and looking for surveillance video.
Southeast Texas' streak of days with temperatures over 100 degrees reached 15 days straight on Monday, and it looks like we've got more to come. The heat wave will approach the standing record for most consecutive 100-degree days in a row, which stands at 24.
Earlier this month, the medical examiner's office reported that there had been at least seven heat-related deaths in Harris County since June.
Anyone with information about the woman's death is urged to call HCSO at 713-274-9100 or Houston Crime Stoppers at 713-222-TIPS (8477).
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