Mom of 3 Was Found Dead in Burning Clothing Bin and May Have Been Sheltering from the Weather

Mar. 15, 2025

Michelle McFarren.Photo:GoFundMe

GoFundMe

According to WNYT, police officers noticed the bin catching on fire in Glens Falls in the early morning hours of Thursday, March 6.

A deceased person was then discovered after the fire department arrived to put out the blaze.

In a statement identifying McFarren, police said that a forensic autopsy indicated her death was fire-related, theTimes Unionreported.

In a letter to the Glens Falls community,Mayor Bill Collinssaid that McFarren may have used the clothing bin as a shelter from the cold and rain.

Michelle McFarren.GoFundMe

“This is a stark reminder for our community that, even while Glens Falls has extraordinarily strong services for people who are unhoused and/or in emotional distress and while our police officers keep an eye out day and night for people who are in danger, a precious life was lost in very troubling circumstances,” Collins wrote.

“We are a community of compassion, a community of neighbors, of helpers, of people who care for others," the mayor added. “On behalf of our entire community, I offer our sincere condolences to the family and friends of the deceased.”

He also told the outlet that the bin has been removed and secured at another location as it is evidence in the case.

According toher obituary, McFarren was born in Bennington, Vt., and described as a “vibrant and spirited individual who lived life with a joy and energy that touched everyone she met.”

“She was known as the life of the party, always ready to share a laugh, dance, sing, or indulge in a shopping spree,” the obituary continued. “Her presence was magnetic, and she could always be counted on to bring warmth, fun, and light into any room.”

AGoFundMewas established to help her family pay for funeral expenses.

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PEOPLE reached out to the Glens Falls Police Department and Harley McFarren for additional information on Monday, March 10.

source: people.com