BLOUNT COUNTY, Ala. — A tragic and deeply disturbing discovery has left a Blount County community in shock after a woman was found dead at her home — her body partially consumed by her own pets after lying undiscovered for what authorities believe may have been nearly two months.
The Blount County Sheriff’s Office confirmed that 61-year-old Rita Thomas was found deceased outside her rural Alabama home on Saturday, following a welfare check prompted by concerns from neighbors who had not seen or heard from her in weeks.
When deputies arrived at the property, they located Thomas’ body in a secluded area of her yard — one that would not be visible to neighbors or people passing by.
“It was a very difficult and emotional scene for our deputies and investigators,” the sheriff’s office stated. “The circumstances are heartbreaking.”
Weeks Without Contact or Discovery
Investigators believe Thomas likely passed away of natural causes — potentially seven to eight weeks prior to the discovery of her remains. Because of the private, somewhat isolated location of her home and the position of her body on the property, her death went unnoticed until concerned individuals requested a welfare check.
Authorities say she lived alone and was not in regular contact with others, which further delayed the discovery.
The exact cause and time of death are still pending confirmation from the medical examiner, but there is no indication of foul play, according to officials.
Pets Confined to Yard Without Access to Food
One of the most tragic elements of the case involves Thomas’ animals. According to the sheriff’s office, she had two dogs and a cat. Both dogs were found in the yard, confined by wireless perimeter collars — technology that allows pets to roam within a defined area but prevents them from wandering beyond it.
With no one to feed them and no way to escape in search of food, the dogs were left to survive as best they could. Authorities say that, over time, the animals became desperate.
“Sadly, the dogs eventually resorted to consuming parts of Ms. Thomas’ remains,” the sheriff’s office confirmed. “Other scavenging animals may have also contributed.”
Due to the consumption of human remains, the dogs were declared biohazards, a classification that tragically required both animals to be euthanized, per standard public health procedures.
Inside the home, deputies found Thomas’ cat in an extremely poor condition — lethargic, malnourished, and in severe medical distress. Despite efforts to help the animal, the decision was also made to humanely euthanize the cat due to its suffering.
A Stark Reminder of Isolation and the Importance of Community
The case has sparked conversations across Blount County and beyond about the dangers of isolation, especially for those living alone, aging, or without close support systems. Many community members have expressed grief not only for the horrific circumstances of Thomas’ passing, but for the silence that surrounded her in her final days.
“This is a tragedy on so many levels — a woman passed away alone, wasn’t discovered for weeks, and her pets suffered unimaginably as a result,” one neighbor shared anonymously. “It just hurts.”
Law enforcement and community advocates are now encouraging residents to regularly check on their neighbors, especially elderly individuals or those who may be vulnerable or living alone.
“Please, take the time to reach out,” said Sheriff Mark Moon. “Sometimes, a simple check-in can make all the difference. No one should die and go unnoticed like this.”
Final Thoughts
While the story of Rita Thomas’ death is tragic and difficult, officials say it also serves as a sobering reminder of the critical need for human connection — and the quiet suffering that can occur behind closed doors when that connection is lost.
As the investigation concludes and the community mourns, Rita Thomas’ story is being remembered not just for its painful details, but as a call to action for compassion, vigilance, and care — for both our neighbors and their animals.
If you or someone you know is living alone and struggling with isolation, local agencies and senior services in Blount County are available to help. Please contact the Blount County Sheriff’s Office for information on wellness check programs or outreach services.