More Details Released In Death Of Vernon Hills Woman, Barricade Situation

VERNON HILLS, IL — An 81-year-old woman whose decomposing body was discovered inside her Vernon Hills home last week likely died of natural causes, authorities said Monday.

The woman has been identified as Mary Barry, police said Monday.

Police found Barry's body after conducting a well-being check around 10:15 a.m. on April 3 at her home in the 500 block of Saddlebrook Lane, authorities said.

Officers with the Vernon Hills Police Department, accompanied by a village social services clinician, went to the home and learned the resident, Mary Barry, lived there with her disabled adult son. When officers arrived, they briefly spoke with Barry’s son before he closed the door and barricaded himself inside the residence, according to the news release.

Officers also reported smelling the odor of decomposition and requested additional assistance.

Tactical teams from the Illinois State Police and the Northern Illinois Police Alarm System Emergency Services Team responded, and after entering the home, officers discovered Barry’s decomposing body on the floor of a bedroom, according to police.

Authorities used a specialty drone to help locate Barry’s son inside the house several hours after police first arrived, according to the news release. He was detained and transported to a hospital for evaluation.

Preliminary autopsy results from the Lake County Coroner’s Office determined Barry died of natural causes.

Investigators also determined the last known contact with Barry occurred more than a month ago. Police said it appears Barry’s son, who has not been publicly identified, may not have realized his mother had died due to a medical condition.

He remains hospitalized for treatment, and police said no criminal charges are expected.

Authorities said the home has since been turned over to Barry’s family.