N.J. teacher reported missing more than 6 months ago found dead, investigators say

More than six months after she was reported missing, a Morris County teacher has been found dead of an apparent suicide, investigators announced Wednesday.

Human remains were located on Nov. 19 in a wooded area off of Howard Boulevard and Route 80 in Roxbury Township, thanks to help of K9 tracking team that has been searching for Lara Emanuele, 46, a teacher at Alexander Hamilton Elementary School in Morristown, according to a statement from the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office. She was reported missing on June 7 after she had not returned home from work, authorities have said.

The Morris County Medical Examiner’s Office has confirmed the remains to be those of Emanuele, authorities said.

While the cause and manner of death were still undetermined, Morris County Prosecutor Robert J. Carroll said there was no evidence to indicate that her death was suspicious.

“I realize her disappearance has also generated rumors on social media that foul play was involved,” Carroll said in a statement. “While a thorough investigation continues into her death, at this time, evidence points to Emanuele having taken her own life. This was a determination that could not have been made prior to the recovery of her body.”

Investigators said early on that morning, Emanuele exited her vehicle in the parking lot of the hotel and left the area of her own free will. Her cell phone was also located in her vehicle after her disappearance, officials said.

A handwritten note was discovered in her car, indicating she did not want to be found, the office said.

“The Morris County Prosecutor’s Office extends its condolences to Ms. Emanuele’s family for their loss,” Carroll said. “Her disappearance generated an outpouring of support and concern for Ms. Emanuele and offers of assistance. Ms. Emanuele was a special person to her students, co-workers, family, and the community.”

Editor’s note: NJ Advance Media typically limits reporting on suicides to those that occur in crowded public places, involve public figures or, in special circumstances, where there is a larger public impact. Suicidal thoughts and behaviors can be reduced with the proper mental health support and treatment. If you are in crisis, please call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 988 or contact the Crisis Text Line by texting TALK to 741741.

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Chris Sheldon may be reached at csheldon@njadvancemedia.com.