Police say they’re conducting a homicide investigation after human remains were found in Somerset County.
Monday morning, state police, the Somerset County and the Cambria County district attorneys held a news conference. Police say hunters found the remains of two bodies about 20 yards into the woods along Ligonier Pike in Conemaugh Township, Somerset County on Friday.
Forensic specialists are still examining the remains to identify the victims. Their gender is still unknown at this time.
Investigators say it’s possible the victims are two men who went missing back in March. James Smith, 32, and Damian Staniszewski, 19, were last seen together on March 26. Staniszewski’s vehicle was found abandoned two days later on Somerset Pike.
Investigators are working with a Mercyhurst University forensic anthropology team. A forensic analysis could take 10-14 days.
Police could not say at this time if there are possible suspects.
Investigators are asking anyone with information to come forward. They’re offering a cash reward up to $2,000 for information on the missing men or the remains found.
If you have any information, you can contact the PSP Somerset Station by calling 814-445-4104 or contact the PSP Ebensburg Station by calling 814-471-6500.
