Family questions woman's death in Virgin Islands

The family of a local woman found dead in the Virgin Islands earlier this month says the death looks suspicious, and they want a second autopsy done.

Joan Baruffaldi, 45, from Lynnfield, was a well-known and loved North Reading veterinary clinic owner.

“She was absolutely a wonderful person. Highly respected as a veterinarian,” said Lisa Moore, who knew Baruffaldi.

Baruffaldi was found dead by her husband, Robert Harris, during an international veterinary conference at the Westin St. John Resort.

Harris called family members to say Barrufaldi killed herself after the two had an argument. Court documents say Baruffaldi locked herself in the bathroom at the resort and wouldn’t come out. Ten to 15 minutes later, hotel security found her with a bathrobe strap tied around her neck.

Baruffaldi’s ex-husband and her two children have some questions about Harris’s account of the story. They filed an emergency affidavit to have control of the body so the second autopsy can be performed.

Court documents say the two were having marital problems.

A judge extended a restraining order against Harris on Friday, which prevents him from moving or burying Barrufaldi's body.