Sources tell News 12 that investigators initially believed the woman may have been pregnant, but later determined extreme heat could have caused bloating. The medical examiner's office is now working to determine the woman's cause and time of death.
Council Member Oswald Feliz called the discovery "horrible" and said more needs to be done to help homeless New Yorkers. He also said he heard that the woman may have died at a nearby homeless encampment before her body was moved, though police have not confirmed that.
People who work and live nearby told News 12 they noticed a strong odor in the area for days leading up to the discovery. A nearby gas station employee said he regularly sees drug transactions and sexual activity in the area and is now calling for more lighting and cameras under the overpass.
Police have not released the woman's identity. The investigation remains ongoing.