Death Of Morristown Teacher Leaves District Mourning

MORRISTOWN, NJ — For nearly six months, the Morristown community had been hoping for the safe return of beloved third-grade teacher Lara Emanuele, who went missing in early June.

However, on Wednesday evening, Morris County Prosecutor Robert J. Carroll announced that her body had been found by police KJ-9 units from the Ramapo Search and Rescue Organization on Nov. 19 in a wooded area off of Howard Boulevard and Route 80 in Roxbury Township.

Emanuele, 46, was a teacher at Alexander Hamilton Elementary School in Morristown, according to a statement from the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office. She was first reported missing on June 7 after she had not returned home from work, authorities have said.

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"It is with heavy hearts and deep sadness that we share the devastating news of the passing of Mrs. Lara Emanuele, a teacher at Alexander Hamilton who has been missing for the past five months. Our thoughts and prayers go out to her family, friends, and the entire school community during this incredibly difficult time," Superintendent of Schools, Anne Mucci said.

Emanuele had worked for the Morris School District for approximately 20 years.

"Mrs. Emanuele was a cherished member of our school family, known for her dedication, kindness, and passion for education. Her impact on the lives of her students and colleagues was immeasurable, and her absence will be deeply felt by all who knew her," Mucci said.

During this time of mourning, Mucci asked all students and staff to join together for support and to contact the school principal or counselor if you or someone you know needs help.

"We extend our heartfelt condolences to Mrs. Emanuele's family and friends. May they find strength and solace in the memories of the joy and warmth she brought to our lives," Mucci said.

While the cause and manner of death were still unknown, Morris County officials said there was no evidence to suggest her death was suspicious.

"I realize her disappearance has also generated rumors on social media that foul play was involved. While a thorough investigation continues into her death, at this time, evidence points to Emanuele having taken her own life. This was a determination that could not have been made prior to the recovery of her body," Carroll said.

The Morris County Prosecutor's Office stated that they do not often reveal precise facts about suicide investigations; however, given the amount of interest in Emanuele's disappearance, some details will be shared.

Investigators said that a handwritten note was discovered in her vehicle, indicating she did not want to be found. Surveillance footage from Walmart also showed her shopping alone prior to her disappearance, and additional footage showed her exiting her vehicle in the parking lot alone and departing of her own free will.

"We hope that finding her will provide some sense of relief and help loved ones begin the healing process," Roxbury Police Chief Adone said.