The identity of the person whose remains were found near Manitou Springs on May 29 still isn’t known.
On May 29, around 6:30 p.m., two hikers walked into the Manitou Springs Police Department with a bag that contained a partial human skull and other bone fragments.
They were hiking near Spruce Trail (near the water tower) when they discovered the remains.
The MSPD contacted the El Paso County Sheriff’s Office and the Investigations Division assumed responsibility for the investigation.
Sheriff’s detectives and the El Paso County Search and Rescue Team searched the area on May 30. The SAR provided two cadaver dog teams to assist.
On May 31, the El Paso County Coroner’s Office conducted an autopsy on the partial skull, surgical hardware associated with orthopedic repair and other bone fragments. The coroner’s office will determine the cause of death; the investigation is ongoing.
Information will be released as the investigation allows. Anyone with any information about this case should contact the El Paso County Sheriff’s Office Tip Line, 719-520-7777, or Crime Stoppers at 719-634-7867 to remain anonymous.