Human Remains Found by Recreationists in Missoula County Date Back Centuries

MISSOULA COUNTY, MT — What initially appeared to be a recent death investigation took an unexpected turn when human remains discovered by recreationists in Missoula County were determined to be Native American and date back centuries.

After exhausting state law enforcement resources, radiocarbon testing revealed the remains date to 1780-1810, prompting the transfer of custody to the Confederated Salish & Kootenai Tribes for respectful reburial.

Recreationists Make Discovery

On June 29, 2024, sheriff’s deputies responded to a rural location on Deep Creek Road where recreationists reported what they believed to be human remains.

Detectives confirmed the remains were human but could not identify the gender due to exposure to the elements. In an expanded search on July 2, 2024, with assistance from the University of Montana Anthropology Department, additional remains from a second individual were discovered.

“All remains were securely transported to the Medical Examiner’s Office in Missoula for further investigation,” the sheriff’s office stated.

Investigation Expands

On November 14, 2024, another report of human remains was made near Southside Road. Detectives worked to determine if these remains were related to those found earlier in the year but could not make that determination due to weathering and environmental exposure.

From Law Enforcement to Archaeology

The remains underwent a comprehensive examination process that moved beyond traditional law enforcement resources. They were first examined by the Medical Examiner’s Office in Missoula, then transferred to the Montana State Medical Examiner in Billings for further review.

After exhausting the capabilities of the State Medical Examiner, the remains were transferred to the University of Montana Anthropology Department and then to California State University, Chico, where radiocarbon testing was conducted.

The testing revealed the surprising results: the remains date back to 1780-1810 and are believed to be of Native American descent. Investigators believe the remains were likely found elsewhere and moved to the Deep Creek and Southside areas.

Tribal Custody

In September, the Montana State Burial Preservation Board, which includes representatives from the Confederated Salish & Kootenai Tribes, met and agreed that the tribes would take custody of the remains from the sheriff’s office.

“This is a good reminder to the public that if you locate human remains, under any situation, please contact our office or local law enforcement immediately,” the sheriff’s office stated. “Please do not disturb or relocate them.”

The sheriff’s office thanked the public for patience during the process, noting that examination of remains found in this manner is time-consuming but thorough.

“The subject matter experts work diligently to ensure nothing is missed and they are confident in their identity, when one is available,” officials stated. “In this case, no identity could be determined.”

Anyone with information regarding the human remains is asked to contact the Missoula County Sheriff’s Office at 406-258-4810.