Sadie Roberts-Joseph’s Death Ruled A Homicide

The activist and founder of an African American history museum in Louisiana was found dead in her trunk last week.

The death of Sadie Roberts-Joseph has been ruled a homicide.

READ: Sadie Roberts-Joseph, Founder Of Baton Rouge’s African American History Museum, Found Dead in Trunk of Car

According to a report from CBS News, the preliminary cause of death was “traumatic asphyxia, including suffocation.” An autopsy was conducted by the East Baton Rouge Parish Coroner’s Office.

On Monday, the coronoer’s office released the following statement:

“It is with great sadness and respect we investigate any unexpected or traumatic death. When our investigation involves an innocent victim, such as Ms. Sadie Joseph, it is particularly tragic. Our condolences are extended to Ms. Joseph’s family and friends.”

The 75-year-old woman was found dead in her trunk last week. The vehicle was discovered on a dead end street that was several miles from her home. No suspects have been named in connection with Roberts-Joseph’s death. Sharon Weston Broome, the mayor of Baton Rouge, said the city is offering a cash reward of up to $5,000 for information leading to an arrest and indictment.

Roberts-Joseph was an activist in the Baton Rouge area. She also founded the Odell S. Williams Now & Then Museum of African-American History, which is now called the Baton Rouge African-American History Museum, back in 2001.

Source: CBS News