LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) -- A 79-year-old woman was found stabbed to death earlier this month in Fern Creek, and Louisville Metro Police warned residents of the patio home community where it happened to be cautious as they investigate the case.

"It's a wonderful neighborhood and it was a shock," Judy Miller, who lives in the area, said Thursday. "We just were really stunned. We can't believe it happened actually." 

LMPD spokesman Dwight Mitchell said police found a woman dead inside a home in the 10000 block of Chenoweth Vista Way, near Billtown Road, on Feb. 12. LMPD's Homicide Unit conducted a death investigation and determined she was stabbed. The Jefferson County Coroner's Office said the victim was 79-year-old Bettie Collins. Her death is now a murder investigation. 

"(She was a) very nice lady," Miller said. "She's a retired RN, very nice. It's a sad time, a sad world."

On Thursday, LMPD said they've received a lot of questions since the area is "primarily occupied with elderly residents who are concerned about this incident in their small community."

In a written statement, LMPD spokesman Sgt. Matt Sanders said the Homicide Unit is "aggressively pursuing the party(s) responsible for this heinous attack," they're recommending ways for residents in the area to safeguard their home.

"Confirm that you are securing your residences and vehicles to deter criminal activity," Sanders said. "If you see anything out of the ordinary, or have any concerns at all, please report it immediately by calling 911 or contact our non-emergency number at 502-574-7111. LMPD's 7th Division officers have already stepped-up directed patrols in the immediate area."

Miller lives with her husband not too far from where it happened.

"You have to be cautious," she said. "You know, I do feel safe, but you got to be cautious regardless of where you are. Doesn't matter if it's shopping center or your home or wherever. You have to be cautious of your surroundings."

Sanders said LMPD will update the public if there is any new information in the case.

"I just hope they find who did it (and) justice is served, because she was a very nice lady," Miller said.

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