Death investigated as slaying

ROCKVILLE, Washington County — Detectives are investigating the death of a man whose body was found in a remote area of Washington County.

"We're investigating it as a homicide until we find otherwise," said Washington County Sheriff Chief Deputy Rob Tersigni.

Tersigni said the body was found "heavily decomposed," but estimated the 20-something-year-old man had only been dead for about two days. He said extreme heat in the area likely accelerated the body's decay.

An on-scene investigation found no indication of a bullet or knife wound, a fact that may change after a complete autopsy by the state medical examiner, Tersigni said.

The body was discovered close to Gooseberry Mesa, near Rockville, and detectives found no weapons, camping equipment or any vehicle in the vicinity.

Officials found identification on the man, but until officials can confirm that identification, they will not release the name. The family of the person named in the identification has not been contacted for questioning, Tersigni said.

No missing person's report has been filed for anyone matching the man's description.

— Jacob Hancock