Human Remains Discovered At Patapsco Valley State Park

ELLICOTT CITY, MD — Authorities are investigating after human remains were found in Patapsco Valley State Park on Wednesday.

The remains were found around 1 p.m. by a hiker near the Forest Glen Trail in the Hilton area of the park, a Department of Natural Resources Police spokesperson said in an email. Foul play is not suspected.

The discovery prompted officials to close park trails in the area. All trails had reopened by Thursday morning, authorities said.

Hunter Dortenzo, a spokesperson for the Department of Natural Resources Police, told The Baltimore Banner that foul play is not suspected in the death.

Patapsco Valley State Park extends along 32 miles of the Patapsco River, encompassing more than 16,000 acres and eight developed recreational areas across Howard and Baltimore counties. It's a popular site for Marylanders looking to enjoy a day of hiking, fishing, camping, canoeing, biking, horseback riding or picnicking.

Park features include playgrounds, a small nature center, trails and a swinging bridge.

This isn't the first time human remains have been found in the park, according to police and reports.

In June 2024, authorities found the body of Jaime Noé Martínez Pérez in the park’s McKeldin area, The Baltimore Sun reported.

In June 2019, Baltimore County police found the body of Glenroy St. Aubyn Copeland in the park, according to the Baltimore County Police Department. His remains were discovered by a woman walking her dog.

Two months later, Dion D'Angelo Boler of Columbia and Renardo Giovanni Whitehead of Laurel were charged with first-degree murder in connection with the death.

In April 2019, Darius Singleton’s body was found near the park's entrance, according to police.

In 2011, the body of John H. Hagegeorge of Catonsville was found in the park while authorities were searching for a missing girl. Police said he died of natural causes and exposure.

Get The Latest Local News (For Free!) With One Quick Tap