Schaumburg woman found strangled; search for killer continues

SCHAUMBURG, Ill. (WLS) -- Investigators are trying to figure out who strangled a 33-year-old woman in her home in northwest suburban Schaumburg and why.

Investigators released a community alert Tuesday afternoon as they continue to search for the person who strangled Tiffany Thrasher in her home over the weekend, and investigators said she may have been sexually assaulted as well.

Detectives believe the suspect entered Thrasher's apartment through an unlocked ground floor window. Increased patrols are now working the area and residents are being warned to be on alert.

"It's concerning. We live right across the street. It would be nice to get some information," said Scott Leban, neighbor.

Thatcher's body was found Sunday morning in her apartment in the 2600-block of Clipper Drive. She was killed sometime after 8 p.m. Saturday, when she returned home from dinner with friends.

She was reported missing Sunday morning when she failed to show up for Easter services, where she was to sing with the choir.

"It's a big loss for us. Tiffany was very much a part of our family here. Very devoted to her faith. Very proactive in our church. She was involved in everything that happened here," said Pastor Mike Gates, Living Hope Church.

A Texas native, Thrasher lived in Schaumburg with a female roommate who was away when the murder happened. She had only recently moved into the apartment complex.

"I'm freaked out. I've lived here for nine years and I can leave my car door open. Nothing happens," said a neighbor who only wanted to be identified as Shamika.

In Texas, Tiffany's family and friends are trying to piece it all together. In a statement posted on a GoFundMe page for Tiffany, her sister wrote, in part, "Tiffany was a loving, happy young lady whom had overcome so much in her life. She found her one true love in Jesus, she loved her church, her family, her canine children and her Chicago Cubs."

As the investigation continues, Thatcher's church family prepared to remember her life.

"At the very least, we will have a memorial service here for her," Gates said.

Gates said Thrasher's extended family lives in other parts of the U.S., including Texas, so he was not sure where the official funeral would be held.

Anyone with information should call Schaumburg detectives at 847-882-3534.