The Yavapai Sheriff's Office is investigating human remains found Sunday in the area of the Child's (Irving) Power Plant campground southeast of Camp Verde. The remains, partially covered and decomposing, were discovered by hunters north of Stehr Lake.
Detectives have classified this case as a homicide.
Investigators contained the scene of the discovery, gathered evidence and then transported the body to the medical examiner's office in Prescott.
Tuesday, an autopsy was conducted of the remains.
It is likely the body had been in the location for a long time, possibly up to a year. Though sex and race is still unknown, the age is estimated at between 20 and 40 years. Height is thought to be about 5-5
The body has a distinctive tattoo along the upper back. The tattoo is designed in a narrow, repetitive chain-like pattern, which spans the upper back and extending to both sides.
Detectives also have found items on the remains which they also hope will help identify this person. A metal belt buckle has a rectangular shape and displays a die cut design on the exterior. Additionally, a "Kwikset" key on a small metal ring was also found. Detectives will release a photo of these items when available.
The Sheriff's Office is asking for the public's help to identifying this person. Anyone with information is urged to call the Criminal Investigations Bureau at 928-771-3278 and ask for Detective Alex Jaramillo. Information may be reported anonymously to Yavapai Silent Witness at 1800-932-3232.
Heavy snow storm creates highway havoc
Montezuma-Rimrock Fire and rescue crews were involved in the traffic snarls created by heavy snow Tuesday in Northern Arizona.
One captain said the department responded to several rollovers, slid offs and fender-benders. In one case, two accidents were combined as one with a number of cars involved at MP 301, two miles north of the Sedona interchange.
Interstate 17 had been closed for a period, due to snow and wrecks. Also closed was Interstate 40 on both sides of Williams.
On Wednesday, snowy and icy conditions remained on Interstate 17 north of MP 300.
As much as six inches of snow was reported on SR 260, east of Camp Verde from the storm.
Copper Canyon, south of Camp Verde also had icy patches remaining south on Interstate-17.
