Police say the remains have been identified as Seikeya Jones, 31, who is homeless.
Mary Waldron says she knew the victim in high school.
"She was such a great person, she did not deserve this," explained Waldron.
Friends of the victim says she was a mother, but unfortunately fell on hard times.
The cause of death is still being determined by the Suffolk County Medical Examiner’s Office.
Officers responded to a 911 call reporting suspicious activity in the wooded area next to 320 Nassau Road at 11:50 a.m., according to police.
Upon arrival, police found human remains, now identified as Jones, in a suitcase next to the building.
Anyone with information is asked to contact Homicide Squad detectives at 631-852-6392.