Stamford police say they have “a lot of legwork to do” in the homicide case involving a 93-year-old woman, and they’re hoping the public will aid in their investigation.

Isabella Mehner, described by her family as active and independent, lived alone at 565 Cove Road. Neighbors say she was often outside working on her garden.

On Wednesday night, family members came over to check on Mehner after she didn't answer the phone. That's when they found her at the bottom of the stairs and called 911.

Police initially believed Mehner died from a fall, but an autopsy determined the injuries to her head weren't consistent with that. Police also found some personal items missing.

There was no signs of forced entry, but police say a door was unlocked. Her son told News 12 that she always locked her door.

“Why someone would do something like that to a 93-year-old?” asked Roy Mehner. “She was going to be 94 next month.”

Lt. Michael Noto says people in the community should expect to see “uniformed personnel in the area over the next couple days” as they continue their investigation.

A neighbor saw Mehner in her garden around 1:30 p.m. Wednesday. Then a family member spoke with her on the phone at 3 p.m. She didn't answer the next call at 6 p.m.

Police believe whatever happened occurred between 3-6 p.m. Anyone with information is asked to contact the Stamford Police Bureau of Criminal Investigations at 203-977-4420.