Human remains were discovered near Knights Ferry along Highway 108 last week, and Stanislaus County detectives say the case is now officially a homicide investigation. Deputies were called out around 1 p.m. on April 30 to the 16200 block of Highway 108 after a passerby reported a possible body, and investigators found the remains near the side of the road. Authorities have not identified the victim or released how the person died, and the sheriff's office has described the circumstances as suspicious. Detectives are asking anyone with information to contact the sheriff's office.
What authorities have said
According to CBS Sacramento, the Stanislaus County Sheriff's Office confirmed that the Major Crimes Unit is leading the case after deputies responded to reports of a possible body along the highway. CBS reports that investigators located the remains close to the roadside and that officials have not said whether they have identified any suspects. The outlet also notes that the sheriff's office characterized the discovery as suspicious and urged members of the public to share any tips that might help move the investigation forward.
Police activity and local closures
Local reporting says a large law enforcement response followed, with one lane of Highway 108/120 at Lover's Leap shut down on May 1 while detectives processed the scene. As reported by the Oakdale Leader, Public Information Officer Nathan Crain told reporters that the Major Crimes Unit was on scene and described the case as "a very complex and ongoing investigation." Officials have released few additional details.
Context and how to help
This latest discovery comes after another body was found on April 14 along Highway 108 near Adams Gravel Plant Road, a case investigators have also classified as a homicide. Stanislaus Area Crime Stoppers is offering a $1,000 reward for information in that earlier case, according to The Modesto Bee. The Modesto Bee reports that anyone with tips can contact Detective Tinajero at 209-525-7083 or submit information anonymously by texting "StanCS" to 738447, calling 1-866-602-7463, or visiting stancrimetips.org. Investigators have not released the victim's identity and say they will provide more information when they can.
