An intact human skull and several bones were discovered in the dense swamp grounds of the Tom Nevers region of Nantucket, Massachusetts. The discovery was made by two men, Peter McHugh, a Connecticut resident with a home on Nantucket, and an unidentified companion while searching for deer antlers, a hobby known as “shed hunting,” on Thursday, April 4, 2024.
The Nantucket Police Department, in conjunction with the Massachusetts State Police, is conducting an in-depth investigation into the remains found in the secluded woodland area off Milestone Road near Philips Run swamp. Authorities were alerted by the men at approximately 5 p.m., and upon their arrival, they found the remains situated in a challenging and dense terrain.
The bones, described as a complete skull and “many” bones by the first responders, have raised significant concerns about the circumstances surrounding the individual’s death. Foul play has not been ruled out as investigators work to piece together the identity and cause of death of the deceased.
Lieutenant Angus MacVicar of the Nantucket Police Department expressed cautious optimism about identifying the remains, emphasizing the open nature of the investigation and considering all possibilities, including foul play. “It’s an open case, and all of those things are not ruled out,” Lt. MacVicar stated, noting the complexities involved in such a case.
The remains were found in an area known for its popularity among deer hunters, especially during the antler-shedding season. Despite several elevated deer watch stations, the remains have gone unnoticed. McHugh, upon discovering the remains, recounted his disbelief and the realization that he was looking at human bones. “It was surreal,” McHugh said, reflecting on the initial moment of discovery.
Following the discovery, the remains were secured and processed by state and local police before being transferred to the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner for further examination. Investigators hope that through dental records or DNA testing, they will be able to determine the age, gender, and identity of the deceased. The examination will also attempt to clarify how long the remains had been at the location and the cause of death.
The Nantucket Police Department and Massachusetts State Police have committed to exploring every avenue in their investigation, aiming to unravel the story behind the discovery in the serene yet secretive landscapes of Nantucket.
