BOSTON, Feb. 29, 2016—The man found deceased on Cottage Street yesterday morning has been identified as a Chelsea resident, and Chelsea Police Chief and Suffolk County District Attorney Daniel F. Conley are asking for the public’s help in determining the circumstances of his death.

The man was identified as 34-year-old Alex Perez, also known as Alex Perez-Lapop. Chelsea Police officers in the area for an unrelated call were approached just before 5:00 am by a witness who stated that there was an unresponsive male on the sidewalk near 83 Cottage St. Officers responded to the scene, attempted to provide medical assistance, and called for emergency medical services.

Perez was transported to Whidden Memorial Hospital, where he was declared dead at about 5:45 am. A preliminary examination of his body did not reveal obvious signs of violent trauma; the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner will conduct an autopsy to determine the cause and manner of his death.

As with all cases of unattended death in Chelsea, State Police detectives assigned to the Suffolk DA’s office are leading the investigation with the support and assistance of Chelsea Police detectives.

Anyone with information on Perez’ death is asked to contact the Suffolk County State Police Detective Unit at 617-727-8817 or Chelsea Police detectives at 617-466-4805. Tipsters may also call the 24-hour CrimeStoppers tip line at 617-466-4880 or submit tips through the Chelsea Police Department’s website at www.chelseapolice.com.

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All defendants are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.