NORFOLK
A Norfolk Botanical Garden employee who neighbors said lived quietly was the victim of a homicide, police said Tuesday.
Angela Lechlitner, 28, was found dead by friends Saturday night in her Fox Hall home in the 2400 block of Shafer St., according to a police report. Her body was taken to the state medical examiner's office.
Norfolk police Capt. George Votava said there were obvious signs of trauma, though police did not release the cause of death. They obtained a warrant to search for forensic evidence in the woman's small white house on a block of single-family homes.
Lechlitner liked to tend to her home's lawn and plants, neighbors said.
"She was quiet, kept to herself. She was a churchgoer, too," said Ed Dickman, who lives next door.
The botanical garden's Web site listed Lechlitner as a nursery technician. The garden's executive director, Donald R. Buma, said in a written statement that fellow employees were "deeply saddened." He extended sympathy to her family and friends and said garden officials were cooperating with the police in the investigation.
Cheri Taylor, past president of the Fox Hall Civic League, said Lechlitner was league secretary and that she had known her for three or four years. Lechlitner was quiet, a bit shy and always ready to volunteer, Taylor said.
Lechlitner loved horticulture and offered tips to people on growing things, Taylor said. "She's an upright citizen. She had real good friends."
Tom Leisher, who knew Lechlitner through the civic league, also recalled her as quiet and helpful. He said he has lived in the neighborhood for 35 years and couldn't recall anything like this.
Anyone with information can call the Crime Line at 1-888-LOCK-U-UP, or the homicide squad at (757) 664-7023.
Matthew Roy, (757) 446-2540, matthew.roy@pilotonline.com
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So Sad
Angie was a wonderful young lady. Full of life and love for nature. We first met her when she relocated here for her job after graduating from Purdue. She began attending our church because she found a house just a few blocks away. I remember meeting her parents on a trip down. Our hearts were broken to hear about this tragic death. She truly made an impact on everyone she met not only with Tab. Church but with CFC as well. I'm thankful to have had the chance to know her. She will never be forgotten.
Angie is with the L-rd
Yes, Daniel, she did much good, and loved G-d with all her heart. Angie, all of us at Beth Messiah synagogue will miss you. I am so thankful for the opportunity to know you. Oh--and Angie--it will be a good day at work tomorrow. It's not going to be hot. I love you!
Rest in Peace Angela
I'm so sorry to hear of this young woman's death. It appears that in her short life she did much good for her community and touched the lives of many. It's sad the good ones fall before their time. My thoughts and prayers go out to her family and friends.
::: - (
Angie, Angie, Angie. The news of your passing is devastating. Your kindness and friendly smile always made me feel welcome at church, but I never took the time to get to know you better...I guess I always thought there'd be time for that later.
The entire Tabernacle Church family - those that knew you well and those, like myself, who were blessed with a smile and wave - will miss you immensely. You inspired me to walk in faith, and I am comforted knowing the Lord was with you before, during, and now after your life here has passed away. While some may ask God "why" He would allow you to be taken in such a violent way, I remind myself that all things work together (somehow!) for His glory, not ours.