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Swampscott lawyer Melissa Dragon found dead after Friday disappearance, authorities say
Melissa Dragon, 54, a Swampscott attorney reported missing Friday after last being seen driving in Lynn, was found dead Sunday, according to the Essex District Attorney's Office and Swampscott police. Investigators say no foul play is suspected and the cause and manner of death remain under investigation.
SWAMPSCOTT â A 54-year-old Swampscott lawyer who was reported missing late last week has been found dead, authorities announced Sunday.
Melissa Dragon, of Swampscott, had last been seen driving a Lexus in neighboring Lynn on Friday, according to a joint statement from the Essex District Attorney's Office and the Swampscott Police Department. She was found dead on Sunday.
The cause and manner of her death remain under investigation, authorities said. They added that no foul play is suspected.
Officials said they do not expect to release further details out of respect for Dragon's family.
The disappearance of a local attorney drew attention across the North Shore over the weekend as word of the search spread through the close-knit Swampscott community. Authorities have not said where Dragon was found or who located her, and they have not disclosed any circumstances surrounding her death beyond the preliminary determination that criminal activity is not believed to be involved.
Dragon's death comes as a shock to a town of roughly 15,000 people, where professionals like her are often familiar faces. The Essex District Attorney's Office, which oversees prosecutions and death investigations across the county, and Swampscott police are handling the case jointly.
Anyone with information that might assist investigators is encouraged to contact Swampscott police or the Essex District Attorney's Office. Authorities have not issued a public appeal for tips, and it was not immediately clear whether additional information would be released as the investigation continues.
Grief resources are available through local community and faith organizations for residents who may be affected by the news.