DANBY, Vt. -
A passerby spotted a human skull on the side of Danby Hill Road in Danby Sunday. Now police are trying to figure out who the person was and how she died. Police say the skull is human and probably that of a young, white woman, but not much else is known at this point. But it's a case that could become a homicide investigation.
Vermont State police combed the side of the road Wednesday hoping to turn up more clues. They used K-9 units in hopes of finding additional remains and evidence.
Police are hoping more clues will help them determine how long the skull was on the embankment.
"When remains are in the woods sometimes there is animal activity and animals will transport the remains from the location where the person passed away. Right now we're hopeful we'll find other remains in the area," Vt. State Police Capt. David Covell said.
The state medical examiner's office says it appears the woman died quite some time ago, and based on evidence of trauma on the skull, it's possible her death was a crime. They hope to test dental records and extract DNA to determine just who she may be. There are many open missing persons cases in the state matching this case, but police say it's too soon to tell.
"At this point we're still having to examine the skull to determine identity," Covell said.
Residents say they can't remember anything like this.
Anyone who has information is asked to call Vermont State police in Rutland at 802-773-9101.
