Human Skeletal Remains Found in Rural Area East of Salem

Investigators are looking for clues and hoping someone may be able to help.

Salem-News.com

(SALEM) - Investigators are trying to determine the identity of a man whose skeletal remains were found over the past weekend in rural east Salem.

Marion County Sheriff's Office Spokesman Kevin Rau says that shortly before 4:00 pm on Saturday, deputies were called to 6230 Culver Dr SE, which is in a rural area just east of Salem, by a property owner named Jerry Beckner.

Beckner is the resident on the rural forested area of about 80 acres. He told deputies that he discovered what appeared to be a human skull, but no other remains, while he was walking on his property.

Rau says an investigation ensued and at about 9:00 AM on Tuesday, Marion County Search and Rescue cadaver dogs discovered more human skeletal remains on the wooded property.

At this time investigators have determined that the remains are that of an adult male who may have been approximately 5’5” to 5’10” tall, age and race remain unclear. A pair of dark blue cargo style pants were found with the remains.

According to the medical examiner, the man may have had a broken nose at some point that healed and possible back problems. Investigators also believe that the man may have had dentures.

At this point the cause and manner of death are unknown but detectives say there are no obvious signs of homicidal violence.

Detectives are on scene and are being assisted in this investigation by the Oregon State Police and the state Medical Examiner’s Office.

Anyone with information that they believe may help detectives in this investigation is asked to call Detective Mike Bell at 503-566-6947.