A 60-year-old Wells Fargo employee, Denise Prudhomme, was discovered deceased in her cubicle on August 20, four days after she was last seen scanning into the Tempe office. Authorities were alerted by on-site security who suspected Prudhomme was dead. She was pronounced dead at 4:55 p.m. that day.
Prudhomme last scanned into the Wells Fargo building at 7 a.m. on August 16, a Friday, and there were no further records of her scanning in or out of the office, according to police. The cause of death is still under investigation by the Maricopa County medical examiner, with initial findings showing no signs of foul play.
The circumstances surrounding Prudhomme’s extended period unnoticed are unclear. NBC affiliate KPNX of Phoenix reported that Prudhomme worked in a cubicle on the third floor, situated away from the main traffic areas. An anonymous employee told KPNX that a colleague found Prudhomme at her desk while walking through the building. Several employees had noticed a foul odor but initially attributed it to faulty plumbing.
Wells Fargo confirmed that Prudhomme’s workspace was in a less frequented part of the building. The company expressed deep sorrow over her death and offered support to her family and colleagues. “We are deeply saddened by the loss of our colleague, Denise Prudhomme. Our thoughts are with her family and loved ones, and we are in contact to ensure they are well supported during this difficult time,” Wells Fargo said in a statement.
The company also stated it is “committed to the safety and wellness of our workforce” and is “reviewing our own internal procedures after this event.” Counselors have been made available to support employees, and Prudhomme’s colleagues were informed of her death only after her family had been notified.
By: DNU Staff