We still don’t know the circumstances surrounding Denise Prudhomme’s death, but the details we do have are unsettling.

How could it be that no one noticed or reported the disappearance of the Tempe woman for four days?

That’s a crucial question that we need to address to prevent similar situations in the future.

Remote work has altered workplace connections

The specifics are few. Prudhomme clocked in for work at 7 a.m. on Friday, August 16, at her role in the Wells Fargo corporate office.

Office security discovered her body four days later. Authorities are currently looking into the case but have stated that they don’t suspect foul play.

This situation invites reflection on our interactions with colleagues.

What kind of job allowed Prudhomme to go unnoticed for four days?

Our work atmosphere has significantly shifted since the COVID-19 pandemic forced many of us to work from home.

Some have resumed work at the office a couple of days a week, while others continue to work remotely full time. It’s all about what suits our needs and those of our employers.

Consequently, it is now possible to go extended periods without seeing coworkers face-to-face. This is our current reality.

No one realized Prudhomme was absent

This reality has also brought feelings of loneliness and isolation.

Whether or not this applied to Prudhomme, it’s concerning that no friends, family, or colleagues reported her missing for four days. An entire weekend elapsed without anyone recognizing her absence.

This is profoundly tragic.

Perhaps we should first reflect on ourselves and check how we are doing. Who are the people in our lives, and who would notice if we suddenly vanished, heaven forbid?

Moreover, it’s essential to consider our sense of community and compassion. Are we reaching out to our neighbors or coworkers?

The isolated passing of Prudhomme serves as a crucial reminder for all of us.

Elvia Díaz is the editorial page editor for The Arizona Republic and azcentral, where this column was initially published. You can contact her at elvia.diaz@arizonarepublic.com or follow her on X, (formerly Twitter): @elviadiaz1