Extensive Excavations Uncover Multiple Bone-Like Objects at Ennepetal Construction Site
Ennepetal, Germany (March 18, 2023) – Prolonged excavations have yielded a significant number of additional "bone-like" objects in the soil of a construction site in Ennepetal, Germany. According to the police in the Ennepe-Ruhr-Kreis district, over 30 such artifacts have been discovered to date and are now being transferred to the Legal Medicine Institute in Dortmund for thorough examination. The analysis will determine whether the objects are indeed bone fragments, and if so, whether they originate from human remains.
The excavations were prompted by the initial discovery of human bones at the construction site, which is located near a rehabilitation clinic. The first forensic investigation revealed that the bones were at least ten years old, but could potentially be significantly older.
With substantial support from the German Federal Agency for Technical Relief (THW), the excavation efforts involved the meticulous sifting of a large amount of soil. The police emphasized that they are currently focused on establishing the precise age and burial time of the bones, a process that is expected to take several weeks. As yet, there is no information regarding the source or reason for the burial. The police have stressed that there is no indication of a violent crime.
The THW will conclude its work at the end of this week, according to the police. In agreement with the public prosecutor’s office, the area where the bones were found will be secured and fenced off from the rest of the construction site. Work on the clinic building outside of this designated area can continue unimpeded.
The police have reported that numerous witnesses have come forward with information, including WWII veterans who recall the existence of American graves at the same location during the war.
Here is a summary of the key points:
- Over 30 "bone-like" objects have been unearthed at a construction site in Ennepetal.
- The objects are being analyzed to determine if they are bones and if so, whether they are human remains.
- The initial forensic analysis suggests that the bones are at least ten years old.
- The police are working to establish the age and burial time of the bones.
- There is currently no information regarding the source or reason for the burial.
- There is no indication of a violent crime.
- The THW will cease excavation work at the end of the week.
- The area where the bones were found will be secured and fenced off.
- Construction work on the clinic outside of the secured area can continue.
- Witnesses have reported the existence of American graves at the same location during WWII.
The investigation is ongoing and further updates will be provided as they become available.
