A hunter’s discovery of partial skeletal remains in woodland in Pickens County, Georgia, has led to an expanded search and an investigation involving the Georgia Bureau of Investigation.
Detectives were called to an area off Highway 515 near Piedmont Mountainside Hospital on 14 October after the remains were found, according to the Pickens County Sheriff’s Office.
Investigators initially searched the site for further evidence before returning on Saturday with support from Alpha Team K9 Search & Rescue. Additional skeletal remains believed to be connected to the first discovery were located during the operation.
The sheriff’s office has asked the Georgia Bureau of Investigation to assist with processing the scene and handling the evidence.
The identity of the deceased has not been established, and authorities have not determined the person’s sex or approximate age. The cause and manner of death also remain unknown.
Officials have not said how long the remains had been in the wooded area or whether they suspect foul play.
The remains will undergo specialised forensic testing in an effort to identify the individual and establish how they died. The sheriff’s office urged people not to speculate or share unverified information while the examination continues.
“Please refrain from speculation and sharing unverified information out of respect for the deceased and those who may be affected,” the office said. “Forensic testing will take time, and we appreciate your patience while this work continues.”
