A joint investigation by the Natchitoches Parish Sheriff’s Office (NPSO) and the Natchitoches Parish Coroner’s Office is underway following the discovery of human skeletal remains in a remote wooded area near Ashland on Thursday, according to Natchitoches Parish Sheriff Stuart Wright.
Shortly after 12:00 p.m., detectives assigned to the NPSO Criminal Investigations Bureau, along with NPSO Chief Deputy Darrel Winder and Natchitoches Parish Coroner Steven Clanton, responded to a report of possible human skeletal remains discovered by loggers working in a remote wooded area off Oil Field Road near Ashland.
Upon arrival, investigators were guided to a wooded area near a dry creek bed, where they located and confirmed the presence of human skeletal remains.
NPSO detectives, working alongside Coroner Clanton, carefully processed the scene and conducted a thorough search of the surrounding area for potential evidence that could assist in determining the identity of the deceased and the circumstances surrounding the death.
The skeletal remains were carefully collected and secured for further forensic examination.
NPSO Criminal Investigations Bureau Major J. Byles said the remains were discovered in a remote, heavily wooded area near a dry creek bed and appeared to have been there for an extended period of time.
“The remains were located in a secluded area that is not easily accessible. Based on the condition of the remains and observations at the scene, it appears they may have been there for quite some time. However, additional forensic examination will be necessary to determine their identity and other information relevant to the investigation,” said Major Byles.
Investigators say the skeletal remains will be transported to the Louisiana State University Forensic Anthropology and Computer Enhancement Services (F.A.C.E.S.) Laboratory in Baton Rouge for specialized forensic examination and assistance with the identification process.
Detectives also confirmed that they have previously conducted searches in the general area for an Ashland man who was reported missing by family members on September 14, 2023. According to the original missing person report, family members last saw the man on June 1, 2023.
Investigators emphasize that the identity of the skeletal remains has not been established, and there is currently no confirmation that the discovery is connected to the previously reported missing person case.
Sheriff Stuart Wright said investigators will continue working closely with the Natchitoches Parish Coroner’s Office and forensic specialists to establish the identity of the deceased and determine the circumstances surrounding the death.
“Our detectives and the Coroner’s Office are working diligently to gather evidence and obtain answers concerning this discovery,” said Sheriff Wright. “We recognize that families with missing loved ones may have questions, and we ask for patience as investigators and forensic specialists work through the identification process. Our goal is to establish the facts and provide answers to the family involved.”
The investigation remains active and ongoing. Additional information will be released as it becomes available and can be shared without compromising the investigation.
Anyone with information that may assist investigators is asked to contact Detective Sgt. M. Giammone, Case Agent NPSO High Tech Crime Unit or NPSO Criminal Investigations Bureau Major J. Byles at (318) 357-7830.