DA: 58-year-old found dead inside Clinton apartment, suspect in custody

CLINTON, Mass. — Authorities in Worcester County are investigating an unattended death at an apartment complex in Clinton.

Worcester District Attorney Joseph Early addressed the media on Friday afternoon saying the investigation began on Thursday at around 6:30 p.m. when police were called to an apartment complex in Clinton for a well-being check.

Officers then found 58-year-old Roger Bemis deceased inside his apartment. According to DA Early, investigators believe the victim had been dead for several days before they found him.

"Its creepy, really, it's a little scary," said Geri Rossi, a neighbor. "The police came around and talked to us, asked us about his friends and stuff."

Bemis had injuries that led investigators to suspect foul play was involved, which led them to obtain a search warrant and interview neighbors and residents in the area.

Officers quickly developed information leading them to a suspect, Dean Valchuis, 48, of Berlin, Mass.

State Police then responded to Valchuis's home. There, officers heard moaning coming from the backyard and found Valchuis lying on the ground suffering from serious injuries. They believe Valchuis had fallen from a tree stand.

Valchuis was transported to a local hospital and was charged with assault and battery causing bodily injury, but more charges could be added.

Authorities believe that while this wasn't a random incident, it is an isolated incident but stressed that residents are not in any danger.

The office of the medical examiner is currently performing the autopsy, which will determine Bemis' exact time and manner of death.

No further information has been released.

The Clinton Housing Authority told Boston 25 News they have no comment regarding this investigation.

This is a developing story. Stay with Boston 25 News for more information as it becomes available.

Cox Media Group