by Cheshire, CT – The family of Shane DeJongh, a 53-year-old engineer found dead in his Connecticut home under mysterious circumstances, continues to fight for justice two years after his death was ruled a homicide. Initially believed to have died from a heart attack, further investigation revealed injuries that have left his loved ones demanding answers.
The Mysterious Circumstances Surrounding Shane DeJongh’s Death
On October 6, 2023, Shane DeJongh was found dead in his quaint cottage in Cheshire, Connecticut, a home he shared with his girlfriend. Early reports suggested a heart attack caused his death, but his sister, Robyn van Ekelenburg, and family members immediately sensed something was amiss.
“He didn’t look like he had had a neck. We knew something was wrong with his neck. It was like he had no neck. I can’t even explain it.”
The autopsy confirmed their suspicions, pointing to a cardiac arrhythmia following physical altercation with blunt injuries of head and neck, complicated by other cardiovascular conditions. The medical examiner documented bruising, a brain bleed, neck hemorrhage, and a fracture to part of his thyroid cartilage.
A Family’s Search for Justice and Investigation Updates
Despite the official homicide ruling from the Connecticut Office of the Chief Medical Examiner, DeJongh’s family has struggled to obtain substantial updates from authorities. The New Haven State’s Attorney’s Office leads the ongoing investigation, supported by Cheshire police and state investigators, with multiple interviews and forensic work underway.
Cheshire Police Chief Frederick J. Jortner has withheld further details to preserve the investigation’s integrity, leaving the family with few answers. Meanwhile, DeJongh’s girlfriend, Natasha Vadasz, recently sold the home and relocated, stirring further questions.
Legal Action and Family Determination
In March, the family filed a lawsuit against Vadasz but later withdrew it to add an additional plaintiff and defendant. Their attorney, Kenneth Krayeske, confirmed that DeJongh’s daughter will now be included as a plaintiff, although the other defendant’s identity remains private.
- The couple had planned to move to Georgia after DeJongh accepted a job offer.
- DeJongh was found dead the morning after a celebration with their realtor.
- The family believes DeJongh was the only one injured that night.
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“It’s like trying to put a puzzle together without all the pieces… Shane was the only one with injuries that night.”
Remembering Shane DeJongh’s Legacy
Originally from San Jose, California, Shane moved to Connecticut in 2020 for work at APCT, Inc., a circuit board manufacturer. He is remembered not only for his strong work ethic but also as an accomplished musician who supported charitable causes through his music.
What Happens Next?
The investigation remains active, with no arrests made as of late 2025. The family’s persistent search for truth and justice continues amid the complex legal and investigative process.
For more details on Shane DeJongh’s case, visit the full report at the New York Post.
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