American Nanny, 25, Found Dead in Austrian Apartment Now the Focus of Murder Probe

The death of young American nanny has become a murder investigation after she was found dead in her Austrian apartment this week, officials say.

Lauren Mann, 25, was found half naked on her bed in Vienna on Tuesday when authorities forced their way in after her employers called police.

Local police said they discovered the body surrounded by a "considerable amount of blood."

The Colorado native was working as an au pair while studying in Vienna and lived alone.

"We are still awaiting the final autopsy report, but are presently treating this as a homicide case," Vienna Police spokesman Thomas Keiblinger told NBC News. 

Austrian law prevented officials there from releasing Mann's name, however she has since been identified by the U.S. Embassy, which confirmed it is working in conjunction with Austrian authorities on the investigation.

"We extend our deepest condolences to her loved ones," the embassy said.