Human remains found near Knights Ferry still unidentified as investigation continues
More than a month after human remains were discovered near Knights Ferry, investigators have not identified the victim and the homicide investigation remains active, according to the Stanislaus County Sheriff’s Office.
Deputies and investigators with the Sheriff’s Office’s Major Crimes Unit responded April 30 to the 16200 block of Highway 108/120 after receiving a report of possible human remains near the side of the road.
Authorities later confirmed the remains were human.
In a May 7 news release, the Sheriff’s Office said the circumstances surrounding the discovery were suspicious and that the case was being investigated as a homicide.
Since then, few details about the investigation have been released publicly.
Sgt. Michael Carranza told The Bee this week that the investigation remains active but that he had not received any significant updates from detectives.
After checking with investigators, Carranza said the remains have not yet been identified.
Authorities have not publicly identified any suspects, announced any arrests or released information about a possible motive.
The Sheriff’s Office also has not disclosed the victim’s gender, approximate age or cause of death.
The discovery prompted a significant law enforcement response in the area. On May 1, traffic along Highway 120 west of Knights Ferry was reduced to one lane for a period of time while investigators processed the scene and Caltrans monitored traffic conditions.
At the time, officials declined to provide details about what prompted the investigation.
Anyone with information about the case is encouraged to contact Detective Perez at 209-525-7093 or submit an anonymous tip through Stanislaus Area Crime Stoppers at 209-521-4636 or www.stancrimetips.org.
