Just before 4 p.m. Wednesday, the Howard County 911 Dispatch Center received a call regarding the possible discovery of a vehicle in a retention pond.
The complainant advised dispatchers that they were fishing in the retention pond near the area of Webster St. & 300 N.(40.520133, – 86.136012) in Kokomo when they observed what they believed might be an algae covered vehicle at the bottom of the pond.Officers from the Kokomo Police Department along with Deputies from the Howard County Sheriff’s Department responded to the area.
At approximately 4:30 p.m. Wednesday, a heavily algae-covered vehicle was pulled from the pond with a single occupant inside. The vehicle was identified as a gold 2005 Cadillac CTS bearing Ohio registration “MS ESTER”. Officers on scene then requested the Howard County Coroner along with Sheriff’s Detectives.
On Thursday, an autopsy was performed by a forensic pathologist at Community Howard Regional Hospital at the direction of Coroner Dr. Steven Seele. Preliminary investigation and evidence indicate that the vehicle was occupied by Ester L. Westenbarger (DOB: 9/16/58) of Kokomo. However, this will be confirmed by forensic dentistry and/or DNA in the near future. Ester was reported to the Howard County Sheriff’s Office as a missing person on November 13, 2009 (2009-23974). She was last seen leaving Miller’s Bar on foot to get her vehicle that was parked at the Hoosier Bar.
This case is active and will remain under investigation by the Howard County Sheriff’s Office and Howard County Coroner’s Office. The cause of death will be released at the conclusion of the investigation when it has been determined by the Coroner. However, neither the Coroner or Detectives suspect foul play. Anyone with information is asked to contact Detective Scott Waymire at 765-614-3463.