Human Remains Pulled From Lake 43 Years Later: Gruesome Discovery Prompts Investigation [Video]


Human remains were pulled from a lake in North Carolina on Tuesday, and the gruesome discovery was made by authorities who were investigating a case from 43 years ago. According to a report from the Associated Press, a 1968 Pontiac Catalin was pulled from Lake Rhodhiss and investigators found unidentified human remains inside the vehicle.

The vehicle was discovered by advanced sonar technology approximately 30 feet below the surface of Lake Rhodiss, which has a maximum depth of around 65 feet. Although authorities have not positively identified the human remains as of the time of this report, investigators believe they belong to a man who was reported missing back on February 19, 1972, over 43 years ago.

An investigation into the man’s cause of death has been launched. However, authorities do not suspect foul play. Speaking with reporters, Sheriff Alan C. Jones released a statement regarding the case.

“We take a serious approach to all case reported to the sheriff’s office and never consider a case closed until the truth is known.”

An updated report from Associated Post revealed that the human remains are believed to be those of Amos Shook, a retired Air Force veteran who was reported missing 43 years ago. Reportedly, investigators reopened the cold case into the man’s disappearance after Shook’s daughter went to detectives last month and requested that they take a closer look.

Based on a report from the Charlotte Observer, the remains will be transferred to the N.C. Office of the Chief Medical Examiner for an autopsy in order to get a positive identification. Authorities are hoping to gain more information about this case after thoroughly examining all of the evidence that was found inside the car. Information as to what was found in the car wasn’t made available, and investigators are still sifting through the mud-filled vehicle. Several law enforcement agencies conducted the recovery operation and a fire and rescue dive team helped retrieve the car from the lake. This story is still developing and further updates will be posted here as they are made available.

[Image via Bruno Vincent /Getty Images News]

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