Police in Romania have uncovered a deeply distressing case involving a young woman and her much-loved pets.

Adriana Neagoe, 34, had not been in contact with her family for several days. Concerned, a relative asked officers to check her apartment near Bucharest. When they entered the flat with the relative’s help, they found Adriana deceased, with her two pugs beside her.

Authorities say the dogs, left without food, had begun to feed on her body. Ambulance staff confirmed her death at the scene, noting no immediate signs of violence. An autopsy will determine how she died.

Her sister later shared a heartfelt tribute, writing that “another angel has gone to heaven,” and expressing disbelief at the sudden loss.

Police have opened an investigation and are examining all possible explanations. Early findings suggest Adriana had been dead for some time, based on changes in the body that occur after death.

The dogs have since been taken into shelter care while officials continue their inquiries.

Messages of sympathy have poured in on social media. Many expressed shock, while others offered comfort to the grieving family.

Sadly, cases like this are not entirely unheard of. When pets are trapped without food or water, they may resort to survival instincts. A similar situation occurred in the UK in 2013, when a woman who died alone in her home was partially consumed by her starving animals.

Adriana’s family now faces the painful task of understanding what happened and saying goodbye to a woman they describe as loving and vibrant.