Police to Drain Lagoon Where Child's Severed Limbs and Head Were Found

The remains of a toddler, including a head, two feet and two hands, found in Garfield Park on Chicago’s West Side Saturday and Sunday, most likely belong to an African American child who was 2 to 3 years of age, according to authorities.

As yet, investigators cannot determine if the child was a boy or girl. More evidence must be found. Chicago Police announced on Tuesday that the lagoon will be drained by the city water department.

A foot was first found on Saturday. The Chicago Sun-Times reports the discovery was made around 4:40 p.m. after a 911 call reporting a limb floating on the water. On Sunday, the Chicago Police sent divers into the lagoon to search for more remains.

Authorities told the Chicago Tribune that a right foot, right hand and left hand were found in the area of the lagoon, as well as a 20-pound weight. Later in the day, police found the child’s head.

The body parts were in an advanced state of decomposition. Depending on the level of decomposition, the Cook County Medical Examiner told WGN News, fingerprints could be pulled from the hands. It’s also possible DNA could be used to identify the remains.

Squad cars are guarding the park. Police have been quick to steer onlookers away from the park. The park spans 185 acres north of I-290, south of Kedzie, west of Homan Avenue and east of Hamlin Boulevard.