Family Sues Dollar Tree Over Mother’s Death in Freezer

MIAMI – The family of Helen Massiell Garay Sanchez, a 32-year-aged anesthesiologist, is suing Dollar Tree, alleging negligence led to her death after she was found frozen inside a store freezer in Miami. The lawsuit seeks $50 million in damages.

Discovery and Initial Investigation

On December 14, 2025, an employee at the Dollar Tree located at 968 SW Eighth St. In Little Havana, Miami, discovered Garay Sanchez’s body inside a freezer . Police responded to the scene and initiated an investigation. Initial reports indicated Garay Sanchez was found naked, though the exact circumstances surrounding her death remain unclear.

Lawsuit Details and Allegations

The family’s lawsuit names store manager Yanelkis Gonzalez, alleging he failed to properly secure the store and account for all customers before closing on December 13, 2025. The suit claims Gonzalez did not review security footage or conduct a thorough search of the premises, despite knowing Garay Sanchez had not left the store . The family further alleges the freezer was not properly secured, allowing customer access.

Cause of Death and Hypothermia

The cause of death was determined to be hypothermia, according to reports released on February 11, 2026 . Experts note that severe hypothermia can cause paradoxical undressing, where a person removes clothing before death due to a sensation of feeling warm . The investigation is ongoing to determine the precise sequence of events.

Background on Helen Massiell Garay Sanchez

Helen Massiell Garay Sanchez was originally from Nicaragua and was visiting her father in Miami at the time of her death . She was a mother of two and a practicing anesthesiologist specializing in congenital heart disease. A GoFundMe campaign was established to raise $20,000 to cover the costs of transporting her body back to Nicaragua for burial, and as of December 16, 2025, had raised over $13,000 .

Dollar Tree’s Response

Dollar Tree has stated it is cooperating fully with the authorities but declined to comment on Garay Sanchez’s connection to the store . The company expressed its condolences to the family and loved ones.