Mass. woman identified as victim found in trunk during Maine traffic stop

Authorities have identified the victim whose body was found in the trunk of a man's car during a traffic stop in Maine last week, Worcester County District Attorney Joseph D. Early Jr. said.

The victim was identified as 28-year-old Massachusetts native Maddilyn Burgess, and a medical examiner determined Burgess died of blunt force injuries.

Burgess's body was found in the trunk of 34-year-old Gyrth Rutan's car after Rutan died by suicide in front of a Maine State Police trooper in Gardiner on Thursday.

>>PREVIOUS: Police find body in man's trunk after he shot himself during traffic stop

Police searched Rutan's apartment in Sturbridge and found evidence of a crime scene in the building.

Burgess's friend told Boston 25 News that she had been telling Burgess to "please get out of the relationship before something happens to you."

The victim was described as a happy-go-lucky person, who was always spiritual.

"She's a good person, very generous, and sweet," Burgess's friend said. "Kind hearted."

Burgess's friend had warned her of the danger she may be in but said fear may have been a factor in the end.

"I tried telling her to get out of the relationship," Burgess's friend said. "Some people are scared."

Back at Rutan's apartment on Fairview Park Road in Sturbridge, neighbors said they'd see him from time to time.

"On occasion, he would be sitting in front with a woman," Sarah Fulginiti said. "On and off together."

Burgess's friend said the two had been dating for a couple of months and she had tried to invite Rutan over for dinner, but he always declined.

Now, all she has are memories of Burgess.

"I'm very upset about it," the friend said. "I hope she gets some justice."

The friend said Rutan leaves behind a young daughter.

The investigation into the incident is ongoing.

Cox Media Group