Two individuals found deceased in a tent in Wolcott

Two individuals found deceased in a tent in Wolcott last month were determined to have died from accidental drug overdoses, according to the Vermont Department of Health. The Lamoille County Sheriff’s Office identified the individuals as Lucas and Tammy Menard. They were discovered in a tent on their family’s property on Jones Road the day before Thanksgiving. The couple had been participating in Vermont’s hotel-motel program for the homeless but lost their accommodations when changes were made to the state’s shelter policies. Afterward, they chose to reside in a tent on their family’s land, utilizing on-site facilities. This tragic incident has brought renewed attention to homelessness and substance use issues, with advocates warning that stricter shelter policies may lead to further preventable deaths.