The Tempe Police Department has taken into custody a 51-year-old man after finding skeletal remains in a freezer on his property. According to FOX 10 Phoenix, Joseph Hill Jr. faces charges for allegedly concealing a body, a felony, and for not reporting a death, which is a misdemeanor.
The investigation began when police received a tip on October 22 suggesting that there was a dead body in a freezer at Hill’s residence, located near Dorsey Lane and Baseline Road, even though Hill declined to let officers investigate the freezer he did mention that his father had died some four years earlier. A subsequent search warrant allowed detectives to discover the remains, as detailed by authorities; however, they have yet to confirm the identity of the deceased, although Hill's father was mentioned in relation to the found remains.
Reflected in the shock of locals is a storyline they never imagined would unfurl in their own backyards, "It's unbelievable, it’s shocking [and] unexpected," one neighbor told 12News. The area, known for its tranquility and often dotted with families enjoying its peace, has been disrupted; where children once played without care now the clandestine shroud of a crime scene looms, as neighbors process this grim discovery in a place once marked by familiarity, not fear.
The home, which had been vacant for a year after sustaining damage from a fire, appeared inconspicuous to those living nearby, mirroring normalcy until the authorities' discovery pointed to a hidden narrative beneath the calm veneer. While Tempe Police have yet to reveal further details, they are encouraging the public to come forward with any information related to this case, maintaining the utmost discretion for those who choose anonymity, individuals can reach out to the Tempe Police Department at 480-350-8311.
