The corner of Old Beach Road and Salamanca Street in St. Augustine turned into an outdoor lab for forensic investigators Friday.
It’s at least the second day of sifting through the dirt after the St. Johns County Sheriff’s Office said a passer-by discovered human remains.
Sheriff’s spokesman Chuck Mulligan said the passer by happened to by a physician.
PHOTO GALLERY: Bones discovered at construction site
“[He] saw what he believed to be a human femur bone,” said Mulligan.
More human bones were found Friday.
The St. Johns County Sheriff’s Office called on a state bone expert and archeologist, who determined the bones are 75 years old or younger.
“That puts that then under the auspices of the medical examiner and law enforcement rather than archeology,” said Mulligan.
It’s also believed all the remains belong to the same person.
“We do not know if something else more heinous occurred, there’s no information to support that at this point in time,” said Mulligan.
The remains were located near a historic burial site that had been discovered in the 1980s.
Many people who saw the activity Friday were naturally curious.
“Now you have me with many questions,” said tourist Taryn Gumbs.
But neighbors weren’t too shocked given the historic nature of the area.
“Not surprising to find things like this, either in the dunes or in a vacant lot,” said Roy Olive.
Investigators may also be able to identify this person based on what they have already.
“We do have components that we believe will contain DNA for us,” said Mulligan.
Once the investigation is completed, a sign on the property shows it will eventually be developed. We’re told a new house is in the works for the vacant lot.
The St. Johns County Sheriff’s Office is asking people to stay off the property while the investigation continues.
Cox Media Group
