Investigation Continues After Human Remains Found Stuffed In Barrel

The investigation continued Thursday after a dive team found human remains in a barrel in Indiana County.

Police said they are investigating the case as a homicide. They are not releasing much information because they said the case is very sensitive and they don't want to tip off possible suspects by revealing many details.

Indiana County Coroner Michael Baker said the human remains, including parts of a skeleton, were found Tuesday stuffed inside a 55-gallon barrel in Burrell Township. The barrel was hidden in the Blacklick Creek, which leads into the Conemaugh River.

After receiving tips from another case, police shut down Newport Road in Burrell Township. Neighbors said there were about a half dozen officers at the scene and a helicopter was brought in. Shortly after, the dive team found the barrel.

On Wednesday, an autopsy was performed by the Allegheny County Coroner's Office. Police said they would not release the name of the victim until dental records come back. Baker said he hopes to get the dental records by Friday, but toxicology reports could take weeks.

No one has been charged in connection with the homicide. Anyone with information is asked to call police.

Police didn't want to release whether the person was a man or woman, but the Indiana Gazette is reporting the body is believe to be a man. And that the man has been dead for over a month.

Police told WJAC-TV the person died more than a week ago. Stay with WJACTV.com, WJAC-TV News and WJACTV.com Mobile for continuing coverage.

Previous Stories: September 1, 2010: Body Found Stuffed In Barrel Underwater In Indiana Co.