News Summary
Authorities in New Orleans found the mummified remains of 31-year-old Charles Hainsworth in a severely hoarded home, prompting emergency clean-up and health interventions. The discovery raised concerns about mental health and living conditions. The property is now condemned, and the elderly homeowner faces evaluation for her mental state. This incident highlights critical issues surrounding the treatment of vulnerable residents in the area.
New Orleans – Authorities are currently clearing biohazards from a residence at 6355 Argonne Boulevard following the discovery of a mummified body within the home on May 7, 2025. The remains of 31-year-old Charles Hainsworth were found in conditions characterized by extreme hoarding, extensive trash, and animal infestations.
Police and Code Enforcement responded to the property after receiving complaints regarding unpleasant odors. The discovery of the mummified body suggests that Charles Hainsworth had been deceased for approximately nine months. Orleans Parish Coroner, Dwight McKenna, confirmed the identity of the body, though the precise cause of death remains under investigation.
The homeowner, Barbara Hainsworth, is an elderly woman with reported mental disabilities. Neighbors described conditions at the property as concerning, noting the presence of garbage, numerous chickens and roosters, and rodent infestations. The extreme state of neglect included significant amounts of trash, holes in the bathroom floor, and overall unsanitary living conditions.
Prior to this incident, Barbara Hainsworth faced legal issues regarding the upkeep of her property. In February 2024, she was fined $6,125 for maintaining a nuisance property, which was reported to have high weeds, bad odors, and an infestation of animals. Following the recent discovery, Code Enforcement officials were prompted into action by a referral from the New Orleans Health Department just a day prior to the body being found.
An orange notice was posted on the property indicating that six chickens and one rooster had been impounded by the Louisiana Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. The home has now been condemned due to health hazards, and plans are in place for emergency cleanup efforts as well as pest control interventions.
The local mental health unit was called to assess Barbara Hainsworth’s condition after the discovery of her son’s remains. At this time, she has not been charged with any criminal activity related to the living conditions or the death of Charles Hainsworth.
The situation underscores broader issues related to mental health and living conditions in New Orleans, where officials continue to address the needs of vulnerable residents. Neighbors recalled instances where Barbara Hainsworth could be seen wandering in the neighborhood with a stroller, collecting discarded items. Their reports about the “unbearable” odor from the Hainsworth home led to authorities investigating the property.
With a history of code violations and reports from tense living situations, the case raises questions about safeguarding the wellbeing of individuals who may be struggling with mental health challenges, as well as those of their families. As the investigation unfolds, community members remain in shock over the harrowing discovery within their neighborhood.
Authorities are maintaining their focus on ensuring safe and healthy living environments while providing support to individuals like Barbara Hainsworth, who may require additional assistance.
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Additional Resources
- NOLA: Mummified Man Found in Lakeview
- Fox 8 Live: Mummified Body Found in Lakeview
- WDSU: Woman Lived with Dead Son’s Body
- BBC News: Mummified Body Discovery in New Orleans
- People: Woman Lived with Mummified Son for Months
- Wikipedia: Hoarding Disorder
Author: STAFF HERE NEWORLEANS WRITER
NEW ORLEANS STAFF WRITER The NEW ORLEANS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERENewOrleans.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in New Orleans, Orleans Parish, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as French Quarter Festival, New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival, and Essence Music Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the New Orleans Chamber of Commerce and Greater New Orleans, Inc., plus leading businesses in energy, healthcare, and education that power the local economy such as Entergy, Ochsner Health, and Tulane University. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREShreveport.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Louisiana's dynamic landscape.
