Missing elderly Philadelphia woman with dementia found dead in neighbor's car: police

Authorities say the body of a missing elderly Philadelphia woman with dementia was found inside a neighbor's car on Tuesday amid freezing temperatures.

Bessie Watson, 92, was first reported missing from the 1700 block of Georges Lane in West Philadelphia on Sunday. 

Investigators said Watson, who had gone missing before, was found in the backseat of a neighbor's car parked a block away from where she lived.

What we know:

The body of 92-year-old Bessie Watson was found in the backseat of a neighbor's car on the 1700 block of Georges Street on Tuesday afternoon. 

Watson, who family members say had dementia, was first reported missing from her home on the 1800 block of Georges Street on Sunday.

Chief Inspector Scott Small told reporters that Watson had gone missing from her home before.

Watson, who was 5-feet-tall and 160 pounds, was dressed warmly for the below-freezing temperatures, according to police.

There were no signs of trauma, Chief Small said.

What we don't know:

Investigators are working to find out if the freezing cold temperatures played a role in Watson's death. 

Her body was taken to the Philadelphia Medical Examiner's Office.

Why you should care:

Dangerously cold temperatures over the last several days prompted Philadelphia to issue a Code Blue advisory. 

A Code Blue means the city places its homeless outreach on high alert, and encourages those living on the streets to find a shelter.

To find a shelter or warming site, visit the City of Philadelphia's website.

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