Crime & Safety

Police Examine Tools, Door in Muretta Death

Nearly one month later, authorities still look for answers in 'suspicious' death of Williams Township man.

Police seized tools, electronics and even the front door from the home of a Williams Township man who died last month under suspicious circumstances.

Michael Muretta, 47, was found covered in blood in his home on Morgan Hill Road on Aug. 29. He died a few hours later at St. Luke's University Hospital. His death was deemed suspicious, but nearly a month later the Lehigh County Coroner still hasn't ruled on how Muretta died.

According to state police, deputy Coroner Rick Pender said that circular abrasions on Muretta's face and head may have been caused by a hammer.

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The search warrant application released earlier this month says police were looking for "potential weapons used to inflict injuries."

And according to the Express-Times, court documents said that's what investigators took away from the scene: numerous tools, including a hammer, pliers, screwdrivers and scissors.

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They also took phones, three computers and a number of prescription medications.

Muretta had lived in the home since 1998. He was part of a group of residents fighting the expansion of the nearby Chrin landfill. 

His death was the second one investigated by authorities in the township this year. In March, resident Mark Werkheiser was shot and killed at his home. His ex-girlfriend has been charged with his death.


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