Groton Man Arrested in Grisly Murder of Roommate, Ending Serial Killer Speculation
Groton, CT – May 3, 2025 — The city of Groton, Connecticut, was shaken in March by the disturbing discovery of human remains near a local cemetery, sparking widespread speculation about the presence of a serial killer operating across New England. However, police have now confirmed that the case is an isolated, targeted incident following the arrest of 68-year-old Donald Coffel, who has been charged with the murder and dismemberment of his roommate, Suzanne Wormser, 58.
Discovery of the Victim
On March 19, a passerby made a chilling discovery near Colonel Ledyard Cemetery in Groton—a suitcase containing a human torso. Authorities later confirmed the remains belonged to Wormser, who had been living with Coffel in a nearby apartment on Allen Street since December 2024. At the time, her disappearance had not been officially reported, allowing weeks to pass before police were alerted to her absence.
Police Investigation
The case took a dramatic turn on April 16, when Groton Police received a tip prompting them to conduct a welfare check at Coffel and Wormser’s residence. Inside, investigators found extensive evidence of a violent crime, including large amounts of blood, a bloodied baseball bat, a hand saw, and clothing soaked in blood.
Coffel was interviewed three times by police. During his final interview on April 23, he confessed to the killing. According to the arrest warrant, Coffel admitted that he and Wormser had gotten into an argument over crack cocaine. In a fit of rage, he struck her with a baseball bat, ultimately killing her. He then stored her body in the apartment for over a week before dismembering it and discarding the torso in the suitcase found near the cemetery.
Legal Action and Court Appearance
Donald Coffel was formally charged with murder, tampering with evidence, and illegal disposal of human remains. Due to his medical condition—Coffel is reportedly battling pancreatic cancer—he appeared in court virtually from his hospital bed at Lawrence + Memorial Hospital. He is currently held on a $1 million bond, and his next court appearance is scheduled for June 10.
Public Reaction and Police Clarification
The gruesome nature of the crime, combined with a series of other body discoveries along the East Coast, had fueled public fears of a potential serial killer targeting women across interstate corridors. However, Groton Police Chief David Burton and other law enforcement agencies have strongly pushed back against these rumors.
“This was a targeted, isolated incident involving two individuals who knew each other,” said Chief Burton during a press briefing. “There is absolutely no evidence linking this case to any broader criminal pattern or to other cases under investigation in the region.”
Groton Mayor Keith Hedrick also addressed public concerns, stating, “There has been a lot of irresponsible speculation on social media. We want to assure the public that Groton remains one of the safest cities in the Northeast.”
Ongoing Investigation
While Coffel’s confession has brought clarity to Wormser’s death, authorities continue to search for the remainder of her dismembered body, which has yet to be found. Police are urging anyone with additional information to come forward.
This horrifying case has served as a reminder of the dangers that can sometimes lurk behind closed doors. As the legal proceedings move forward, the community mourns the loss of Suzanne Wormser and hopes for justice to be served.