Jasmyn Beatty Homicide: Police Unsure If Attack Was Random

FRAMINGHAM, MA — Investigators on Thursday released new details about the apparent slaying of 28-year-old Jasmyn Beatty, but they also said it's unclear if her death happened either in a random attack or by someone she knew.

Beatty was found Tuesday morning at the Halstead Apartments by a man who knew her, Middlesex District Attorney Marian Ryan said during a news conference Thursday. Police found Beatty with a "significant" slash wound to the back of her neck, but Ryan would not say if a weapon was found at the scene.

Ryan said the investigation is in the early stages, but did say there were no surveillance cameras at the Halstead complex, which is one of several large apartment buildings along Route 9 on the west end of Framingham.

Beatty was a financial analyst at the Staples corporate office in Framingham, but was originally from Rhode Island. She lived alone with her dog, and had been working remotely, officials said.

Officials sought to calm fears among Halstead residents — and in the wider community — that the attack may have been random. Framingham Mayor Yvonne Spicer and Framingham police Deputy Chief Sean Riley said police have stepped up patrols in the area.

"If you see something, please call the police department, because this is critically important to our community," Spicer said.

Anyone with tips can contact Framingham police at 508-872-1212.