PRINCETON, Mass. — Investigators say a New York City woman who disappeared on a walk while visiting her mother in Massachusetts has been found slain in the woods.

Worcester District Attorney Joseph Early Jr. said that 27-year-old Vanessa Marcotte was reported missing after failing to return from an Aug. 7 afternoon walk in Princeton.

Her body was found that night by a State Police canine unit about a half-mile from her mother’s home. Authorities say her death appears to be a homicide. An autopsy is scheduled.

Early says, “People should be concerned.” Police Chief Michele Powers is urging town residents to remain vigilant.

No other details were immediately released.

The rural town of Princeton has about 3,500 residents and is 40 miles west of Boston. Early says Marcotte grew up in nearby Leominster.