Boyfriend charged with killing Delaware preschool teacher, police say

NEW CASTLE COUNTY, Delaware (WPVI) -- New Castle County police have arrested a man accused of killing his girlfriend who worked as a preschool teacher in Delaware.

Investigators say 63-year-old Cynthia Amalfitano, of Wilmington, was initially reported missing last month after she didn't show up to work. She was last seen on Saturday, September 25.

A gold alert was issued, but her body was later found on September 26 by Skyline Drive at Carousel Park in Pike Creek, a short walk from her home.

On Tuesday, police arrested 66-year-old Stephen Heck, who was the victim's boyfriend, according to investigators.

He was charged with one felony count of murder in the first degree.

SEE ALSO: Woman found dead in Delaware park identified as missing person from New Castle County

At Concord Preschool and Childcare on Tuesday, Amalfitano was remembered as the heart and soul of a community, who helped raise generations of families around Wilmington.

"What's the story about how her life ended and why she's not with us, just need to know," said Pastor Steve Clark of Concord Presbyterian Church.

He says the community was shocked when she was listed as missing and police put out a picture of her.

"That picture was her. Bright. She lit up a room wherever she was," he said.

Those at the day care where she worked for 24 years said she cared for the kids and loved animals.

Police have not said how Amalfitano died.

Anyone with information on this case is asked to call police at (302)395-8129.