Authorities in Box Elder County have launched a homicide investigation after human remains were found discarded in a black trash bag in Brigham City.
According to the Brigham City Police Department, a construction crew working near 2600 West Highway 13 made the grim discovery, initially mistaking the bag for ordinary debris. However, upon closer inspection, they noticed what appeared to be hair and bones, prompting an immediate call to law enforcement.
Brigham City Police Chief Chad Reyes confirmed that the remains were human and had likely been at the location for several months, but less than a few years. The bag was not buried, but rather left exposed on the surface, adding to the mystery surrounding the case.
Investigators arrived at the scene Wednesday afternoon and began collecting evidence. The remains have since been transported to the Utah Office of the Medical Examiner for further examination.
Authorities are now working to determine the identity of the victim. While Brigham City officials have been in touch with Cottonwood Heights police, they noted that the remains are unlikely to belong to missing person Matthew Johnson, though they have not ruled out the possibility.
As part of the investigation, officials will review missing persons reports at both state and national levels in hopes of identifying the remains. The Box Elder County Sheriff’s Office, Weber Metro CSI, and Utah Statewide Info and Analyst Center have all joined the effort to piece together what happened.
Authorities are urging anyone with information to contact the Box Elder Communications Center at 435-856-7023.
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