In a shocking discovery, the lifeless body of a woman was found inside a freezer at a Dollar Tree store in southwest Miami. The tragic find occurred on Sunday morning when an employee arrived at the store located on 9th Avenue and 8th Street.
The deceased was identified as Helen Massiell Garay Sánchez, who was 32 years old.
According to Miami Police, as reported by local media, Helen entered the store alone the previous night.
Security cameras recorded her walking towards a freezer situated in the storage area.
She did not make any purchases, and shortly thereafter, the store closed its doors.
Her body was discovered hours later by a worker beginning the Sunday morning shift.
Store Closure and Family's Grief
The store was temporarily shut down as authorities gathered evidence and reviewed surveillance footage.
The discovery caused shock. Some family members arrived at the scene visibly distressed, although they chose not to speak to the press.
A Respected Doctor and Mother of Two
The news became even more poignant when the identity of the deceased was revealed.
Helen Garay was an anesthesiologist specializing in congenital heart diseases, originally from Nicaragua. She resided in the United States, leaving behind two young children who remain in her home country.
“In memory of Dr. Helen Garay, a dedicated doctor and beloved mother, who tragically passed away on 12/14/2025 at the age of 32,” states a fundraising request opened by her family on the GoFundMe platform.
The description on the page highlights that Helen was not only recognized for her medical work but also for her familial devotion and warm personality.
“Beyond her profession, she was a loving mother of two children who were the center of her world," the GoFundMe description reads.
Investigative Efforts: Accident, Mental Health, or More?
As of now, authorities have not disclosed further details regarding the incident.
Investigators are looking into whether she entered the freezer voluntarily or if mental health issues played a role.
Detectives have been in contact with her family to determine if there were any relevant backgrounds that could aid in understanding the case.
No signs of violence have been reported, nor have any arrests been made.
The possibility of an accident has not been ruled out, though the investigation remains active.
Efforts to Bring Helen Home
Helen Garay's family has launched a GoFundMe campaign with the goal of repatriating her body to Nicaragua for a dignified funeral.
Under the title “Help Bring Dr. Helen Garay Home to Nicaragua,” the campaign seeks financial support to cover transportation and funeral service expenses.
“The family’s greatest wish is to bring her back to Nicaragua for an appropriate funeral and final resting place, surrounded by loved ones," reads the campaign text.
“We appreciate your prayers, kindness, and support during this difficult time. Your generosity will help bring Dr. Garay home and provide comfort to her family as they navigate this unimaginable loss," adds the campaign description.
Unanswered Questions Surrounding a Tragic Death
The tragic passing of Helen Massiell Garay Sánchez has left a trail of sorrow and unanswered questions. A young woman, a healthcare professional, and a mother of two, who died alone under strange circumstances in a foreign land.
As authorities work to piece together what happened, her family is striving to give her the farewell she deserves.
The case has drawn sympathy, but also many questions: Why did she enter the freezer? What circumstances or motivations led her there?
As of the closing of this report, the fundraising campaign had gathered $2,622 out of a $3,500 goal.
Key Questions About the Miami Freezer Case
What was Helen Garay's profession?
Helen Garay was an anesthesiologist who specialized in congenital heart diseases.
Has the cause of death been determined?
As of now, authorities have not disclosed the cause of death. The investigation is still ongoing.
How can the public support Helen's family?
The family has initiated a GoFundMe campaign to raise funds for repatriating her body to Nicaragua and for funeral expenses.