The search warrant for a death investigation in Schuylkill Haven has revealed the identity and reasons why the death is being considered suspicious.
The death reported at a home in Schuylkill Haven has prompted an extensive investigation involving the Pennsylvania State Police (PSP) and the Schuylkill Haven Police Department.
According to a release from Trooper Ethan Brownback, Public Information Officer for PSP Troop L, authorities responded to 20 Parkway Avenue at approximately 2:30 p.m. on Monday after a family friend discovered the body of a 25-year-old woman.
The friend, identified as Hugo Noel, was asked by the victim's family to check on her welfare after they had been unable to reach her. Upon entering the residence, Noel found the woman, identified in the search warrant as Haley Noel Mills, unresponsive on the stairwell and immediately called 911.
When officers from the Schuylkill Haven Police Department arrived, they confirmed that Mills was deceased. The condition of the home was described as being in disarray, raising questions about the circumstances surrounding her death. The Schuylkill County Coroner’s Office estimated Mills had been dead for approximately 48 hours.
Due to uncertainties regarding the cause and manner of death, the Schuylkill Haven Police Department requested assistance from the PSP Troop L Major Case Team. The team has since conducted interviews, executed search warrants, and is working alongside local police to determine the events leading to Mills’ death. An autopsy is scheduled for Thursday.
Details from Search Warrant
A search warrant filed by Trooper Kody Rittenbaugh and signed by Magisterial District Judge Dave Plachko provides additional insight into the ongoing investigation. Trooper Rittenbaugh, assigned to the PSP Schuylkill Haven Criminal Investigation Unit, outlined key findings and investigative steps:
Mills' body was discovered lying on the stairway with no pants or underwear, wearing a black hoodie. Signs of possible foul play included disarray in the living room and paper currency strewn about, suggesting a potential struggle.
According to Noel, he had spent time with Mills on January 1st, 2025 and checked on her again the next day, when she appeared "dope sick" from opioid withdrawal. He reported that he ensured she was safe before leaving the residence on January 2.
On January 6, after being contacted by Mills' family, Noel returned to the house and found her unresponsive on the stairs.
Evidence of Struggle and Potential Motives
Schuylkill Haven Police Chief Jeffrey Walcott, Deputy Coroners Kyligh Book and Kenneth O'Reilly, and other first responders noted suspicious signs at the scene. Coroners observed ligature marks on Mills’ neck, consistent with strangulation, and marks indicative of a struggle.
The warrant also revealed that Mills was known to have significant liquid assets, a possible motive for a violent crime. Investigators believe her involvement with individuals connected to the drug trade could be relevant, as drug-related violence often involves financial disputes and personal protection measures.
Surveillance and Digital Evidence
Officers identified cameras at both the front and rear entrances.
Trooper Rittenbaugh requested to seize and examine all electronic devices belonging to Mills, including her cellphone, tablets, computers, and any cloud-stored data. Authorities believe these devices may contain communications relevant to the investigation.
State police urge anyone with information to contact the PSP Schuylkill Haven Barracks at 570-754-4600.