OTTAWA — Police in Memphis, Tennessee, have reported that the remains of three children discovered in a wooded area last month may have been there for an extended period, possibly years.
Details of the Discovery
According to a press release from the Memphis Police Department, the identities of the deceased, estimated to be between three and seven years old at the time of death, have not yet been determined. The investigation is ongoing, with authorities working to identify the individuals and understand the circumstances surrounding their deaths.
Memphis Police Chief C.J. Davis addressed reporters during a Wednesday morning press conference, stating that there is no indication of any active threat to public safety. Over 170 personnel are involved in the search for clues, including members of the MPD homicide department, the local medical examiner's office, the Memphis fire department, and state and federal officials.
Initial Discovery and Subsequent Findings
Chief Davis explained that an anonymous caller reported a possible human skull near a wooded area on March 8. Responding officers located what appeared to be a human skull at the edge of the woods. A more thorough search of the area led to the discovery of additional remains in a nearby drainage pipe.
On April 1, investigators assessed the drainage system and found what appeared to be an additional skull. The following day, search teams located 14 additional bones. Based on the remains and initial analysis by the medical examiner's office, it is believed that the remains belong to three individuals estimated to be between three and seven years old.
Investigation and Public Appeal
Investigators returned to the site this week to conduct a more thorough search for evidence. Chief Davis noted that there is evidence suggesting the remains had been there for several years. She pleaded with the public to come forward with any information that could help identify the children and bring closure to the investigation.
“Somebody knows where these children have come from, someone knows of missing children that we have discovered in this area,” Davis said. “This is heartbreaking, it’s disturbing, and at this time we have numerous resources to help us identify these young people and bring closure to this investigation.”
