Human remains found near Taylor Swift’s Rhode Island mansion have been identified as Eric Wein, 31, of Massachusetts, with police concluding no foul play. The remains washed ashore on May 14 in the wealthy coastal enclave of Watch Hill, part of the town of Westerly, Rhode Island, just down the beach from a sprawling mansion owned by Swift.
The South Kingstown Police Department positively identified the remains of Eric Wein, who was reported missing on April 18. Police said Wein’s vehicle was located in South Kingstown on April 10, days before he was officially reported missing. This discovery has raised concerns among locals, particularly due to its proximity to Swift’s property and the recent incidents of human remains in the area.
Rhode Island Police Chief Paul Gingerella previously told Fox News Digital that there is no connection between the remains found and any serial killer in New England. However, the event has sparked renewed speculation about a potential serial killer in the region, prompting authorities to investigate further. Officials have confirmed that no foul play is suspected, and the investigation is concluded.
The discovery in Westerly comes three weeks after an unidentified male was found in the Seekonk River in Pawtucket, Rhode Island. Westerly and Pawtucket are about 48 miles apart. This incident has intensified concerns about the safety of the region, with local authorities working to reassure the public about the lack of connection to a serial killer. Despite the rumors, Gingerella emphasized that the power of social media has contributed to these fears, but he believes the benefits outweigh the negatives.
The speculation has gripped New England after 13 bodies were discovered in Connecticut, Rhode Island, and Massachusetts since the beginning of March. Five of the bodies were found in Massachusetts, five in Connecticut, and three in Rhode Island. Officials said the victims all ranged in age from 25 to 44, and varied in gender. One of the victim’s families, however, has dismissed any link to a serial killer, believing their daughter’s death was unrelated.
In light of the recent comments, the family of Michele Romano, whose remains were the first of the 13 to be discovered, stated that her passing is in no way related to any type of serial killer. They emphasized their faith in the authorities and called for an end to misinformation. Gingerella attributed the serial killer fears to the power of social media and reiterated that the police have ruled out any foul play in the cases of the remains found near Taylor Swift’s mansion.
The situation has prompted a broader discussion about the role of social media in fueling fear and misinformation, and the need for responsible reporting in such sensitive cases. Authorities continue to work on reassurance and investigation, while families of the victims seek closure and clarity on the circumstances of their loved ones’ deaths.