Authorities in Arizona’s Tonto National Forest made a chilling discovery on Monday, June 12, when they stumbled upon the burned remains of an unidentified male on a desolate bonfire pile.
Responding to a call just before 7 am near Bulldog Canyon, deputies from the Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office found the charred body, which they are investigating as a potential homicide.
Residents of a nearby community, consisting of about two dozen custom homes adjacent to Apache Junction, expressed concerns about the area where the body was found. They reported frequent visits to the location by homeless people and drug users, who often leave behind piles of trash and discarded needles.
One resident recalled seeing RVs in the vicinity and speculated that they might belong to drug dealers. She also referenced a past incident, occurring two years ago, where a meth lab caused a fire in the desert near their properties.
Community members voiced their fear, with one resident, Sharon Allison-Rown, asserting, “We’re scared for our own safety out here. Somebody needs to do something about it.”
Authorities have not yet disclosed specific details about the deceased person, including the cause of death. The investigation continues as law enforcement endeavors to identify the victim and bring those responsible to justice.
This unsettling discovery has cast a shadow over the previously tranquil community, leaving residents anxiously awaiting action to address the escalating problems in their area.