Business
Tragic Discovery: Wells Fargo Employee Found Dead at Desk Just Days After Starting Shift
Authorities have identified the deceased woman as 60-year-old Denise Prudhomme.
TEMPE, Ariz. — An investigation is underway following the death of a Wells Fargo employee discovered on the job. Police reports indicated Prudhomme’s body remained undiscovered for four days inside the corporate office.
One concerned coworker expressed the trauma of the situation: “It’s really heartbreaking. What if I were just sitting there? No one would check on me?”
Prudhomme’s body was found in her cubicle by an associate who was inspecting the area. Several employees noted a foul odor but dismissed it as a plumbing issue, raising questions about workplace safety. “To hear she’s been sitting at the desk like that would make me feel sick,” another worker stated.
On August 16, Prudhomme clocked in at 7 a.m. By August 20, building security, responding to reports of an unresponsive employee, contacted authorities. Officers confirmed Prudhomme was deceased upon their arrival.
Her cubicle was reportedly situated away from the main thoroughfare, possibly contributing to the delay in the discovery of her body. Many employees work remotely, though 24/7 security is maintained at the facility.
Police currently do not suspect foul play, but have not released specifics surrounding the cause or time of death. Frustration among employees is palpable, particularly regarding the lack of communication from the bank. “I’m just wondering why they didn’t formally address employees about it?” one worker lamented.
A spokesperson for Wells Fargo released a statement expressing sorrow over the loss and emphasized support services available for employees. They are cooperating with the ongoing investigation, directing all further inquiries to the Tempe Police Department.
Concerns persist among workers regarding transparency and communication from management. “I just feel like they aren’t being transparent with us,” one employee remarked, reflecting on the emotional toll it may take on families. Another staff member acknowledged management’s effort to provide counseling and clean the area but revealed a lingering unease among employees.
The Tempe Police Criminal Investigations Bureau is collaborating with the Maricopa County medical examiner to establish Prudhomme’s cause of death, pending an autopsy.