Coroner: Shenango remains were burned after death
Authorities are performing DNA testing to identify remains found buried in Shenango Township.
MERCER, Pa. - Authorities are performing DNA testing to identify remains found buried in Shenango Township.
At the request of the Mercer County Coroner, Forensic Pathologist Dr. Eric Vey of the Erie County Coroner's Office performed an autopsy on the remain discovered Tuesday night outside buildings along the 2400 block of Mercer West Middlesex Road.
The autopsy determined that the remains are those of an unknown age Caucasian male whose identity has not yet been determined due to what is characterized as significant decomposition.
Investigators confirmed that the remains were burned after the man had died.
Authorities are also still attempting to determine the cause of death.
During a news conference held by investigators from Sharon, Shenango Township, and Pennsylvania State Police, it was revealed that the remains were buried about forty-two inches under the ground several months ago.
The property search is ongoing for additional remains related to the body.
Sharon Police Chief Gerald Smith was at the news conference because Sharon is the closest adjacent community that has reported a missing person in recent months.
Although Smith said he believes 58-year-old Joseph Difrischia met with foul play, he clarified at the that the body is not yet suspected to be that of Difrischia.
