Investigators Believe Recovered Remains Are That Of Missing Tuscaloosa County Man

TUSCALOOSA, AL — The Tuscaloosa Violent Crimes Unit is working to determine if remains found in northern Tuscaloosa County last week are that of a 47-year-old man who has been missing since at least December.

Click here to subscribe to our free daily newsletter and breaking news alerts.

Captain Jack Kennedy, commander of the multi-agency unit, told local media Wednesday morning that Marcus Skelton was reported missing from his home in a rural part of the county in the New Lexington community.

He lived with family and was last seen in May 2024, with his family reporting the man often left home for long periods of time for personal reasons — sometimes for several months — before returning.

Kennedy said Skelton also suffered from several medical issues that would cause concern and he had not come back home or called by December 2024, which prompted his family to report him missing.

"After no leads were developed though investigation, specialized search canines were called upon and conducted a search of the property and surrounding area last week," he said. "The dog team located skeletal remains in the wooded area several hundred yards behind the family’s residence."

The investigation was then turned over to the Violent Crimes Unit and Kennedy said physical evidence recovered suggests that the remains are Skelton.

"Currently the remains are being tested to confirm their identity," he said. "There are no immediate signs of foul play, however the investigation will remain open until identity is confirmed and all investigative leads have been exhausted."

Those with any information concerning this case or Skelton are asked to contact the Violent Crimes Unit at (205) 464-8690.

Have a news tip or suggestion on how I can improve Tuscaloosa Patch? Maybe you're interested in having your business become one of the latest sponsors for Tuscaloosa Patch? Email all inquiries to me at ryan.phillips@patch.com.