Missing Lawrence mother found dead in Haverhill park; one arrested

The body of a missing mother of two was found in Haverhill Tuesday evening, and a suspect is in custody, according to the Essex County District Attorney’s Office.

Carol Flaz-Burgos, 37, of Lawerence, was found dead in a wooded area near Kenoza Lake in Haverhill, the district attorney’s office said. A Massachusetts State Police trooper accompanied by a K-9 and Airwing unit located her body.

“It is a tough day for the City of Lawrence,” Lawrence Mayor Brian A. De Peña said in a statement. “It is not easy for the family or the community, but we thank everyone for working together.”

Authorities have arrested Christian Montero, 35, of Lawerence, in connection to her death.

Law enforcement officials at a Tuesday night press conference at the Lawrence Police Department announced the news.

“It was not the result we expected,” Essex County District Attorney Paul Tucker said. “But at least having found the body of Carol Flaz, we have brought the family some comfort and some resolution.”

On Aug. 31, police were notified that Flaz-Burgo was missing. Lawrence police began a search, soon joined by Massachusetts State Police detectives from the Essex County District Attorney’s Office and Haverhill and Methuen police.

Lawrence police arrested Montero Tuesday afternoon. He lived in the same building as Flaz-Burgos.

At the press conference, officials said they did not have enough information to share about their relationship or whether they knew each other.

Haverhill Police Chief Robert Pistone said police do not believe this was a random act and that there was no continued risk to the community.

As of Tuesday evening, the DA’s office had charged Montero with witness intimidation and misleading an investigation. However, when the medical examiner’s office completes his autopsy within the next day or so, the office said it expects to charge Montero with murder.

Montero was set to be arraigned in Lawerence District Court on Wednesday.

Tucker said his office would share additional information on the case at the arraignment.

“Cases like this tear at the fabric of the community,” said Tucker at the press conference, who added that there has been an outpouring of people to Flaz-Burgo’s apartment. “It makes it a double tragedy not only for the family but for the community as well.”