Police: Elderly woman found dead outside assisted living facility, had been missing 3 hours

Fairfax County police say an 88-year-old woman had been missing for three hours before she was found dead in a garden at an assisted living facility in Great Falls, Va.

Fairfax County Police confirm Joan Ackley was found outside by staff at Brightview Great Falls, at 5:30 p.m. Monday.

Staff at the home reportedly covered her in blankets and called 911 just before 6 p.m.

Police say the elderly woman had already died by the time police arrived just after 6 p.m.

Investigators have not said how long the woman had been outside - saying the length of time was under investigation.

According to Fairfax County police, residents at Brightview don't have the ability to leave on their own but the patio doors are unlocked during the day.

Officials say there is still an active investigation and are awaiting results from the Medical Examiner's Office.

Management described her as a beloved resident, who had lived there for over four years.