BOX ELDER COUNTY — Detectives have identified the skeletal remains discovered on March 30 in the Bear River Migratory Bird Refuge.
According to the Box Elder County Sheriff’s Office, the Utah State Medical Examiner’s Office identified the skeletal remains as Elijah Peck, 42, of Garland, who was not reported as missing.
The remains were reportedly discovered at approximately 10:45 a.m. on March 30 on the northwest side of Willard Bay.
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the Box Elder County Sheriff’s Office responded to the scene and confirmed that the skeletal remains were human.
Officials with the Utah State Medical Examiner’s Office and Weber Metro CSI also responded to process the area and collect evidence.
“(Peck’s) identification was made through the utilization of dental records,” according to a statement from BECSO Deputy Sheriff Cade Palmer. “This case is being investigated as suspicious, as is protocol when a cause of death cannot be immediately determined.”
Investigators believe that Peck was last seen in May of 2023, explained Palmer. However, as the investigation continues, the details are subject to change.
The sheriff’s office is asking anyone with knowledge that could assist in this investigation to call 435-734-6530 and leave a message or email detectives@boxeldercounty.org.