Homicide investigation in Yuba City woman's death

Yuba City police confirmed on Thursday the death of Leola Lucile "Dodie" Shreves, 94, was a homicide.

The unsettling announcement only confirmed what many in the neighborhood already feared.

"It just feels like it's kind of unsafe here, now," neighbor Michael Alexander said. "Just knowing that someone's out there that could like killing people."

Alexander, 20, has lived next door to Shreves for the past four years.

Shreves was found dead early Wednesday in her home in the 500 block of Park Avenue.

Police have not confirmed the woman's identity, but neighbors and other authorities have.

Shawna Pavey, a Yuba City police spokeswoman, confirmed the death is considered a homicide. Police haven't commented on any suspects.

Family members declined to comment on Thursday.

An autopsy was conducted, but the cause and time of death was not released.

Brenda Baker, a Sutter County Coroner's Office spokeswoman, said the cause of death was "pending investigation and toxicology" results.

Friends and neighbors said the woman was found in a bedroom.

A trail believed to be blood was found on the sidewalk outside her home, authorities said.

Neighbors gathered in small circles on Thursday, speaking in hushed tones and occasionally glancing back at Shreves' house.

Colleen Walker has lived across the street from Shreves since 1970. Walker said on Wednesday that she last saw her neighbor a week ago and she was in shock with the news.

"It's hard to believe," Walker said.

CONTACT Rob Parsons at rparsons@appealdemocrat.com or 749-4785. Find him on Facebook at /ADcrimebeat or on Twitter at @ADcrimebeat.