Remains Found Buried Under Garage Assumed to Be Missing Woman

Shawn Sullivan, 40, charged with murder after allegedly confessing to killing his friend Jill Kloppenburg

Mar. 17, 2026 at 2:04pm

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Authorities in Massachusetts have arrested Shawn Sullivan, 40, after he allegedly confessed to a friend that he shot and buried a woman named 'Jill' around the same time that Jill Kloppenburg, 47, went missing over a year ago. Police used ground-penetrating radar to find human remains buried under Sullivan's garage, which they believe are those of Kloppenburg.

Why it matters

This case highlights the tragic fate of a woman who went missing over a year ago, and the importance of thorough investigations to bring closure to families of missing persons. It also raises questions about the nature of the relationship between Sullivan and Kloppenburg, and the potential motives behind the alleged murder.

The details

According to authorities, Sullivan allegedly confessed to a friend that he shot and buried a woman named 'Jill' around January 2025, the same time that Jill Kloppenburg was last seen alive. Police used ground-penetrating radar to locate human remains buried under a 'large patched area' in the two-car garage of Sullivan's family's home in Tyngsborough, Massachusetts. The remains were found in a plastic bag and, although not yet formally identified, police believe they belong to Kloppenburg.

  • Jill Kloppenburg was last seen leaving her home in Lowell, Massachusetts on January 2, 2025.
  • Kloppenburg was reported missing to Tewksbury Police in February 2025.
  • Sullivan allegedly confessed to killing 'Jill' around January 2025.

The players

Shawn Sullivan

A 40-year-old man charged with murder, assault and battery with a dangerous weapon causing serious bodily injury, and improper disposal of a body.

Jill Kloppenburg

A 47-year-old woman who went missing in January 2025 and whose remains are believed to have been found buried under Sullivan's garage.

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What they’re saying

“You don't throw her away. You don't throw anybody away. They don't deserve that... Like why? Like how little of a man are you?”

— Ann Matlosz, Kloppenburg's longtime friend

“She's been missing for 14 months and has probably been out there for the whole time.”

— Steven Kloppenburg, Jill Kloppenburg's uncle

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Shawn Sullivan out on bail.

The takeaway

This tragic case highlights the importance of thorough investigations into missing persons cases, and the need for justice and closure for the families of victims. It also raises questions about the relationship between Sullivan and Kloppenburg, and the potential motives behind the alleged murder.