Foul play eyed in death of wife of millionaire McDonald's owner

NORTH SALEM, N.Y. -- Police say they suspect foul play in the death of the 83-year-old wife of a millionaire McDonald's franchisee found dead at their New York hilltop estate.

New York State Police say Lois Colley was found dead Monday in her home in North Salem, in Westchester County. They believe she was the victim of a homicide.

The Journal News reports that Colley's husband, Eugene, is known for his empire of roughly 100 McDonald's restaurants.

Police have not said how Colley died or whether there are any suspects in her death. Investigators have scheduled a news conference for Tuesday afternoon.

A caretaker at the 300-acre manor found Lois Colley's body in the laundry room of the couple's home in North Salem, authorities said. The Journal News reported that investigators believe Colley, a socialite know to mingle among New York's most powerful families, died sometime between 3 p.m. and 5 p.m. Monday.

There were no signs that anyone had forced their way into the home, which is set back from the road in the quiet Westchester County town.

"We're asking public to remain vigilant and alert," state police Lt. Paul DeQuatro said.

State troopers searched the woods along roads near the home on Tuesday. Authorities said a small fire extinguisher was missing from the home, but DeQuatro would not say whether investigators believe it was used to kill Lois Colley.