Family Continues Search for Answers Two Years After Engineer’s Mysterious Death

The family of Shane DeJongh, a Connecticut engineer found dead in his home, remains puzzled and seeking justice two years after his death. DeJongh, 53, was discovered in his Cheshire residence with a condition described as “no neck” by his sister, Robyn van Ekelenburg. Initially believed to have died from a heart attack, authorities later classified his death as a homicide.

Family members, who traveled from California to view his body, immediately sensed something was amiss. The autopsy revealed injuries inconsistent with a natural cause, including bruises, a brain bleed, a neck hemorrhage, and a fracture on the thyroid cartilage. The medical examiner’s report cited “cardiac arrhythmia following physical altercation” as the cause of death, suggesting violence contributed to his demise.

Cheshire police, assisted by state investigators, conducted extensive interviews and forensic examinations. The case is ongoing under the supervision of the New Haven State’s Attorney’s Office, with few details released. The family has expressed frustration over the lack of updates, especially after the victim’s girlfriend, Natasha Vadasz, sold their home and moved to North Carolina.

In the weeks surrounding his death, DeJongh and Vadasz had been preparing to relocate, and he was found dead in his clothes after a night out celebrating with their realtor. The family believes foul play was involved but has stopped short of naming any suspects openly.

They previously filed and later withdrew a lawsuit against Vadasz, aiming to include DeJongh’s daughter, Zoey, as a plaintiff and to add more parties to the case. The family’s attorney confirmed the legal action was paused to revise the complaint. As of late 2025, no arrests have been made.

DeJongh was born in San Jose and moved to Connecticut for work in 2020. He was known for his strong work ethic and talents as a musician, composing and performing for various fundraising events. His family continues to seek the truth about the circumstances of his death.