GLENDALE, AZ (AZFamily) — Authorities believe they have identified the remains found in a Glendale backyard earlier this month as those of a missing teenager from Queen Creek.

On Thursday, Glendale authorities reported receiving a crucial tip from a tattoo artist who recognized the boy’s tattoos immediately. This identification led investigators to believe the body is that of a 16-year-old boy reported missing from Queen Creek in October 2023.

Investigation and Discovery

The discovery was made on June 8, when landscapers clearing overgrown weeds in the backyard of a home near 53rd Avenue and Cactus Road stumbled upon the remains. The landscapers, who were hired to tidy up the neglected yard, alerted the renters living at the property. The renters, in turn, called the police, leading to the arrival of officers who commenced the investigation.

Upon arrival, officers identified the body as that of a young male, estimated to be between 15 and 16 years old, standing about 6 feet tall with brown hair. Due to the overgrown vegetation, the body had remained hidden for a significant period, effectively camouflaging the remains from view.

Identification and Initial Findings

The key breakthrough in identifying the remains came when a tattoo artist contacted the authorities, recognizing the distinctive tattoos on the body. This led investigators to believe the body is that of the missing 16-year-old from Queen Creek. The boy had been missing since October 2023, and based on the state of the remains, authorities believe his body has been in the yard since his disappearance.

Possible Cause of Death

Tragically, authorities suspect that the teen’s death was self-inflicted. While the investigation is still ongoing, initial findings suggest that there were no signs of foul play. The exact cause of death will be determined following an autopsy, which will also confirm the identity of the deceased. The teen’s name will be released once the autopsy is completed and next of kin have been notified.

Community Reaction

The discovery has shocked the local community, particularly those in Queen Creek who have been aware of the boy’s disappearance. The case has drawn attention to the importance of community vigilance and the role that seemingly minor details, such as tattoos, can play in solving missing persons cases.

Police Statement

“This body was located in a portion of the yard that wasn’t frequented by the people who live there, and the vegetation was so overgrown in that yard that it acted as a camouflage for this individual,” said Jose Santiago from the Glendale Police Department. He added that the overgrown state of the yard had effectively hidden the body from view, making it difficult for anyone to notice the remains earlier.

Ongoing Investigation

The Glendale Police Department is continuing its investigation into the circumstances surrounding the teen’s death. They are working closely with forensic experts to piece together the events leading up to the tragic discovery. Authorities are also examining any potential connections to the boy’s disappearance and are urging anyone with additional information to come forward.

This case highlights the often intricate and challenging nature of missing persons investigations, where every piece of information, no matter how small, can be crucial in uncovering the truth. The Glendale Police Department remains committed to uncovering all details surrounding this case to provide closure to the boy’s family and community.