Yavapai County Sheriff Scott Mascher is blasting the as yet unidentified suspects behind what appear to be the abandonment of human remains from a medical institution, in two Yavapai County locations.
The remains, according to Yavapai County Medical Examiner personnel, were likely from a medical organization and intended for use in the educational and research field.
“It is not much that could surprise me anymore, but this news makes me sick, especially for the families of those whose remains were found,” stated Sheriff Mascher. “I have every assurance the persons responsible will be caught.”
According to the Yavapai County Sheriff’s Office, on December 26, 2020, deputies were notified about possible found human remains in a remote area off Contreras Road, North of Iron Springs Road (County Road 10), outside of Prescott, Arizona. The Yavapai County Medical Examiner investigators confirmed they were human.
The area was secured as the investigation continued until dark and then resumed Sunday morning with assistance on site from Yavapai County Medical Examiner’s Office personnel.
Later, the Sheriff’s Office was notified that additional remains were found in the Camp Wood area off Williamson Valley, northwest of Prescott, Arizona. Preliminary evidence indicated the remains are associated with the remains discovered on Saturday near Contreras Road.
The Sheriff’s Office is treating the investigation as a homicide until proven otherwise.
“There are rigorous standards regarding the control, transportation and use of cadavers and associated body parts. Abandoning remains in this manner is a serious crime and it is the intent of the Sheriff’s Office and Medical Examiner to find those culpable for such disrespect shown in the cavalier way the remains were discarded,” advises the Yavapai County Sheriff’s Office.
Sheriff Mascher and Sheriff-Elect Rhodes say they are working together to assure that whatever resources necessary are available to determine those responsible are found and prosecuted.
“This is a bizarre and grisly case that has more questions than answers at this time. I have confidence we will get those answers soon and find those responsible,” stated Sheriff Elect Rhodes.
If anyone has information on this investigation or may be aware of persons who have discarded human remains at either site or elsewhere, you are urged to call the Sheriff’s Office immediately at 928-771-3260. Anonymous tips may be provided to Yavapai Silent Witness at 1800-932-3232 or online at www.yavapaisw.com.
A direct to tip Silent Witness leading to the arrest of a suspect or suspects, will be eligible for a cash reward.
If you come across human remains or body parts, call 911.