WORCESTER, MA - A 31-year veteran Massachusetts police officer was found dead inside his home earlier this week, setting off an investigation that has taken an unusual turn as authorities continue searching for his wife - a prominent advocate for law enforcement and first responder mental health.
Worcester police were dispatched to a residence earlier this week and discovered 57-year-old Kurt Solomon, an off-duty Worcester police officer, dead. The details of his death are unclear, but it is believed to be “domestic in nature” as the investigation continues.
Solomon was a 31-year veteran of the Worcester Police Department and was liked by many in the community.
“Officer Solomon dedicated more than three decades of his life to serving the City of Worcester. Throughout his distinguished career, he earned the respect of those who served alongside him and was known as an incredibly dependable officer, colleague and friend,” the New England PBA wrote in a statement.
After the discovery, investigators began searching for his wife, 58-year-old Karen Solomon, who was believed to be home that morning.
Worcester County District Attorney Joseph Early Jr. publicly identified Karen Solomon as a suspect and said investigators want to question her about what occurred inside the residence. The most recent development is that an arrest warrant has been issued for her.
Police have asked anyone with information to step forward but to also be cautious.
“The Worcester Police Department is still actively searching for her and continues to believe she is armed. We ask the public to remain vigilant and if you see her or can provide any information, please contact the Worcester Police Department,” a spokesperson for the department told media.
Footage shows a woman believed to be Solomon walking alone, wearing shorts, a T-shirt and flip-flops.
The search has involved numerous local, state and federal law enforcement agencies, including K9s, helicopters and personnel, and has concentrated heavily on the wooded areas and water surrounding a local pond.
Authorities have yet to find Solomon and have since closed multiple recreational areas and a local tavern as the hunt continues.
More About Karen Solomon
Solomon is the founder and president of First H.E.L.P., a nonprofit organization dedicated to reducing the stigma surrounding mental health among first responders and assisting first responders and their families.
“Our first concern is for the officer who lost his life, his family, his colleagues, and the Worcester law-enforcement community,” the organization said in a statement. “We extend our deepest condolences to all those affected by this tragedy.”
According to the organization, its mission includes educating first responders about mental health, advocating for those suffering from post-traumatic stress and honoring first responders who have died by suicide.
Solomon authored two books and has been on several notable talk shows, including an appearance on the Dr. Phil show discussing mental health and suicide prevention.
Her work has extended to the national level. According to her biography, Solomon participated in the 2018 Officer Safety and Wellness Group Meeting, served as co-chair of the Data and Research Committee of the National Consortium on Law Enforcement Suicide Prevention, and participated in an FBI task force connected to implementation of the Law Enforcement Suicide Data Collection Act.
Her background has made the case particularly shocking for the law enforcement community.
Authorities are urging anyone who sees Solomon not to approach her and to contact law enforcement immediately.
This remains a developing investigation, and anyone with information can text 274637.
Writer and author Eddie Molina has over 25 years of combined LEO and military service. Learn more about his interview articles at www.eddiemolina.com.
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