PITTSBURGH — Investigators gathered skeletal remains and clothing Thursday that were found in a Pittsburgh-area park.
Allegheny County Medical Examiner Karl Williams said the remains could be those of an older man likely dead for more than a year. But county police Supt. Charles Moffatt said there was no obvious link to any ongoing missing persons or homicide investigation.
No identification was found and authorities were trying to identify the remains.
A hunter scavenging for deer antlers found the remains in a steep, wooded area of Bullock-Pens Park, behind the Churchill Country Club on Wednesday evening. A chain was wrapped around a tree where the bones were found.
Authorities wouldn’t say if they believe the chain had something to do with the man’s death.
The remains were scattered within an area about 10 feet by 20 feet, which most likely was the work of scavenging animals, Williams said.
Williams said he will likely ask a forensic anthropologist from the University of Pittsburgh to help determine the age and size of the man and, perhaps, how he died.
A homicide detective guarded the remains overnight Wednesday because investigators didn’t want the scene disturbed until they could examine it, Williams said.
“Any skeleton of this nature is always, obviously, treated as a suspicious death,” he said.
Churchill police said the area is heavily populated with deer and people often comb it looking for antlers that deer have shed.
Local News
Hunter finds human remains in park near Pittsburgh
- Local News
-
-
Local nonprofit groups get $900,000 from United Way
The United Way of the Laurel Highlands this morning awarded nearly $900,000 – a record high – to more than 25 nonprofit agencies in Cambria and Somerset counties.
-
Coal truck overturns on Route 219
A loaded coal truck overturned this morning on Route 219 between the South Fork and New Germany exits.
-
Trial in cross-burning case set for July
The trial of a Centre County man in a cross-burning case – originally slated for this month – now is scheduled for July 23 in U.S. District Court in Johnstown.
-
State may take over financially distressed school districts
Pennsylvania’s four most financially distressed school districts could be facing a state takeover, and more districts may be on the way.
-
Rotarians collecting used bikes for third-world countries
The Richland Rotary Club is collecting used bicycles June 16 that will be refurbished for use by the working poor and children in developing countries.
-
Indiana County didn't lose money in scam, police say
State police say a bank got wise before Indiana County lost any money from $53,000 worth of forged government checks.
-
Local events commemorate Memorial Day
Throughout Greater Johnstown, the military was honored on Memorial Day for its sacrifices with marching bands, military hardware, beauty queens and flag raisings.
-
Digital mammography available in the region
Digital mammography is now available at locations throughout the Conemaugh Health System.
-
PennDOT lauds outstanding workers
PennDOT Secretary Barry J. Schoch has recognized 31 PennDOT employees for their outstanding performance with the Star of Excellence Award, the department’s highest recognition.
-
In brief: Several hurt in Northern Cambria crash
Several people were injured early Monday in a one-vehicle wreck on Plattsville Hill Road, authorities said.
- More Local News Headlines
-
Local nonprofit groups get $900,000 from United Way


