The body of an unidentified woman was found near a set of railroad tracks in Jefferson Parish, Louisiana on Friday, August 9, 2024, prompting an investigation by the Jefferson Parish Coroner’s Office.
According to authorities, a man walking near the tracks in the 400 block of Jefferson Highway noticed a strong, unusual smell. Upon further investigation, he discovered the woman’s body near some bushes close to the tracks. The coroner’s office was notified, and the woman’s body was removed for further examination.
Tim Genevay, the director of forensic operations at the Jefferson Parish Coroner’s Office, reported that the body was discovered in a severely decomposed condition. While no obvious signs of trauma were initially detected, investigators are still examining the remains to establish the cause of death. Genevay mentioned that efforts to identify the woman are ongoing, and once her identity is confirmed, they will be better able to understand the circumstances surrounding her death.
At this point, the woman’s identity remains unknown. Forensic investigators are conducting fingerprint analysis and other tests, including dental records, to identify the woman. The coroner’s office has not indicated how long the body may have been near the tracks before being discovered.
Although foul play is not suspected, the exact circumstances of the woman’s death remain unclear. Genevay explained that there were no visible injuries to suggest that she was struck by a train or harmed in any other way. The investigation is ongoing, with authorities awaiting further results from forensic testing.
The tracks near where the body was found are part of a busy railroad route that cuts through several neighborhoods in Jefferson Parish.
This discovery preceded another unrelated case in Jefferson Parish, where a 44-year-old man was found fatally shot in a field in Metairie on August 14, roughly four miles away. Authorities have stressed that the two incidents are not connected but have drawn attention to public safety in the area.
Authorities have asked anyone with information about the woman’s identity or last known whereabouts to contact the Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office. They hope someone from the community will recognize the woman or provide additional details to help solve the case.
