Tracy Lynn Hoffman, a 37-year-old woman from Salisbury, PA, tragically died on August 1, 2022, from a gunshot wound to the body. The Lehigh County Coroner's Office determined the cause of death to be homicide. Hoffman's body was discovered in a bedroom at her residence on East Federal Street by police officers who were responding to a welfare check request from a family member.
Terri Hodel, a 40-year-old woman who lived with Hoffman, was charged with criminal homicide in connection with her death. On August 1, 2022, police officers returned to the residence after receiving an email from Hodel asking animal control to take care of the dogs at the home. Upon their return, they found a note from Hodel and Hoffman's body in a bedroom. Hodel was later taken into custody without incident and denied bail after her arraignment.
The investigation was conducted by the Salisbury Township Police Department and the Lehigh County Homicide Task Force. Hodel eventually pleaded guilty to third-degree murder and was sentenced to serve 20 to 40 years in state prison.
This tragic incident highlights the importance of community vigilance and the swift response of law enforcement in ensuring justice for victims and their families.
