Human Remains Several Hundred Years Old Discovered In MN

GOULD TOWNSHIP, MN — Law enforcement and cultural authorities in Cass County, Minnesota are investigating after human remains believed to be several hundred years old were found.

Authorities are not disclosing the specific location of the remains but said they are located within "a known cultural site."

On Aug. 31, the Cass County Sheriff’s Office received a report from a group of "wild ricers" that they had located what they believed to be human remains in an area of Gould Township on the shores of Leech Lake.

Responding deputies found skeletal remains of at least three individuals believed to be hundreds of years old. Representatives from the Leech Lake Heritage Sites program confirmed the deputies’ findings and the area has been secured.

The Minnesota Indian Affairs Council is also assisting.

In a joint statement, the Cass County Sheriff’s Office and Leech Lake Tribal Police Department reminded citizens of "the importance of contacting law enforcement should they encounter suspected human remains and to not disturb the area," adding: "In doing so, this ensures vital evidence is preserved, along with being respectful of those who were here before us."

The agencies noted that knowingly disturbing suspected cultural sites and cemeteries can have civil and criminal repercussions.