Authorities in Lea County, New Mexico, are investigating a chilling discovery of human remains near the town of Jal, with evidence that could potentially link the remains to a missing persons case dating back to 2019. The investigation began on November 5, when a local resident contacted the Lea County Sheriff’s Office after an unusual and unsettling experience.
The resident had given a ride to a man who allegedly made “alarming statements” and, during the ride, discarded items from the vehicle — some of which appeared to be human bones.
Following this encounter, deputies conducted a search around the man’s location and a nearby convenience store, uncovering fragments later confirmed by a pathologist to be human remains. The investigation intensified when officials discovered the man had been staying on a property rumored to be associated with human remains. After searching this property the following day, authorities found additional bone fragments.
The case took an even more disturbing turn on Saturday, November 9, when another search revealed evidence pointing to “10–20 human skulls.” While initial reports suggested the presence of intact skulls, officials clarified that they had found fragmented skull bones, which could represent remains from approximately 10 to 20 people.
According to KOB News, an NBC affiliate in Albuquerque, the bone fragments are being analyzed to help with identification and to determine whether there is a connection to any known missing persons cases.
Sheriff Corey Helton noted that investigators are focusing on a potential link to Angela McManes, who vanished in 2019 and was last known to live near the property currently under investigation. “Authorities are working diligently to determine the connection between the remains and McManes, as well as other possible victims,” the Sheriff’s Office stated. Sheriff Helton reassured the public, stating, “I know our viewers are concerned, but I can tell you, we don’t have a serial killer walking around.”
While no charges have been filed yet in connection to the remains, the man is currently being held in jail on an unrelated charge. According to reports from KOB, the man claimed that someone had purchased the skulls from an online source, and officials are now working with an anthropologist to verify this claim. The investigation remains active, and authorities are urging anyone with relevant information to contact the Lea County Sheriff’s Office.