Police Identified Victim Found in Brooklyn Trash Can
Authorities confirmed the identity of a 38-year-old Queens woman discovered deceased near Plumb Beach.
Updated on Sept. 23, 2026 in Violence
Police have identified 38-year-old Tanaya Campbell Ortiz as the woman found dead inside a trash can in the Sheepshead Bay area. The discovery occurred near Plumb Beach after emergency responders were alerted to the scene by a 911 call.
Why it matters
The investigation remains active as authorities work to determine the circumstances surrounding the death of the mother of five. Investigators continue to process evidence collected from the site to establish a timeline of events.
The New York City medical examiner is currently determining the cause of death following the discovery of the 38-year-old victim. The investigation remains open as detectives continue to process forensic evidence from the scene.
The players
Tanaya Campbell Ortiz
She was a 38-year-old woman from Queens and a mother of five who was found deceased in Brooklyn.
New York City Medical Examiner
This municipal office is responsible for conducting autopsies and certifying the cause of death for individuals in the city.
The details
A 911 call placed shortly after 3 p.m. alerted first responders to an unresponsive woman in a trash can near Plumb Beach. Investigators have since examined the site and collected physical evidence from the surrounding parking lot to aid in the investigation.
Timeline
September 16, 2026: The body of the victim was discovered near Plumb Beach.
September 23, 2026: Authorities officially released the identity of the victim.
Legal Context
This investigation follows the standardized reporting and evidence-gathering procedures set by the 2024 New York City public safety reporting protocols. Such cases are subject to the city's specific jurisdictional standards for handling unattended deaths and forensic evidence collection.
The discovery near a popular recreational area like Plumb Beach may lead to temporary access restrictions while police conclude their on-site investigation. Residents in the Sheepshead Bay area are advised to remain aware of any official safety advisories from local authorities.
The takeaway
Authorities are continuing their investigation into the tragic death of this Queens resident. Anyone with relevant information regarding activities at the Plumb Beach parking lot on September 16 is encouraged to contact local law enforcement.
Further reading
For more information on local safety updates, visit the Violence section.
