____________________________________________________________________

The body of Dr. Martha Richmond was found on Sunday night.

Gabriel Falcon
AC360° Writer

The death of a Western Kentucky University professor has been classified as a homicide, authorities said today.

Dr. Martha “Bettina” Richmond was murdered, according to the Bowling Green Police Department. Her body was found inside her van on Sunday night.

“We found her dead in a parking lot outside a Parks and Recreation building," Officer Barry Pruitt of the Bowling Green Police told CNN. He also said an autopsy of the victim was performed yesterday.

Pruitt would not disclose details of the investigation or whether there were any suspects or persons of interest at this point. “I really can’t get into it right now,” he said.

Dr. Richmond, 51, was a professor of mathematics at the university, where she worked for 23 years. Her husband, Thomas Richmond, is also a professor in the department.

In a statement, the university said it was “deeply saddened” by the death. “We extend our deepest sympathies to her family.”

The university added that counseling services would be made available to faculty, staff and students.

Police are asking anyone with information regarding the death of Dr. Richmond to call 270-393-4000.

For more crime coverage go to cnn.com/crime.