Woman found dead in home filled with live raccoon, other animals

WATERFORD TWP - A woman is found dead in Waterford home, discovered in deplorable conditions because of the number of animals inside.

The house that Tracey Woodcox was living in on Ridge Top in Waterford looks like anyone's from the outside but on the inside, it's horrendous.

Pictures were taken by investigators showing rooms filled with pets, garbage, filth and feces.

Police were called to the home in the 5000 block at 5:30 Thursday night when the homeowner found Woodcox, 47, dead in one of the bedrooms.

Woodcox had recently moved in with her. That's when police also found deplorable living conditions and many, many animals

Oakland County Animal Control removed 16 cats, a dog, a bird, a guinea pig and a 55-pound raccoon.

"I would hear barking and wining over there at night every once in a while," said neighbor Ronald Boughner.

Some neighbors also said they could often smell a foul odor coming from the home. FOX 2 is told neighbors repeatedly called animal control and even township officials, but nothing has really been done.

Although foul play is not suspected in Woodcox's death, those who live nearby hope what happened to her, will turn some attention to the homeowner now.

"I don't know, I hope she gets help," said neighbor Chester Oparka.

Investigators are waiting for test results to determine the exact cause of death. In the meantime we are told police are working with township officials to get the home cleaned up.